SABBEX speaks to global certification expert, who has moved back to SA
1) Great to have you back in SA! How long has it been, and are you happy to be back?
My family and I moved to Thailand in 2013, but South Africa never stopped being a part of my life. Except during the COVID period, I regularly travelled back to work with my clients here. In fact, during Boatica 2024, I realized just how much time I was spending in South Africa rather than in Thailand. After discussions with a few boat builders, we made the decision to move back. For my wife and child, who have only visited once in the past decade, it was an easy choice. South Africa offers a unique lifestyle, and I couldn’t be happier to be back where I truly belong. My passport may be burgundy, but my heart is green and gold.
2) Did you enjoy your time over there, and what was the key reason for your return?
Thailand was an incredible place to live and work. The culture, the people, and the business environment were all rewarding in their own ways. However, the decision to move there was largely driven by necessity. The 2008 financial crisis had long-term ripple effects, and by 2013, the local certification market had slowed down while Asia’s demand was rising. Moving to Thailand was a strategic move in my career, and now, returning to South Africa is just as strategic—both professionally and personally.
3) Now that you’re back, do you notice a big change in the local boatbuilding sector, in terms of size and growth?
The local boatbuilding industry has made impressive strides in recent years. Today, we see highly skilled builders and naval architects elevating the sector to a new level of professionalism. The implementation of certification processes like IMCI has also brought a greater degree of technical precision and quality assurance. These advancements make South African boatbuilding more competitive on the global stage, and it’s exciting to be part of this evolving landscape.
4) You’re bringing back a wealth of international experience. Will your job be much the same here in SA? An expanded role, perhaps?
Having worked across Europe, Asia, and South Africa, I’ve gained insights into different approaches to innovation and industry. Asia stands out for its entrepreneurial mindset and fast-paced advancements, while Europe, despite some stagnation, continues to lead in sustainable marine technology. South Africa has immense potential, and with institutions like CSIR and AISI driving innovation, I see opportunities to contribute to technological progress in our industry. My role may evolve, but my focus remains on ensuring that local builders meet global standards while integrating fresh, forward-thinking solutions.
5) Local yards are expanding, and tariffs may be on the horizon. Are they sufficiently certified, or are there loopholes that need to be addressed?
South Africa’s boatbuilders are highly skilled, and many yards meet global certification standards. However, there are always areas for improvement. If US tariffs come into effect, they may push builders to refine their compliance strategies even further. The US market has workarounds, such as relocating assets to the Caribbean, but ultimately, tariffs would hurt American buyers more than local manufacturers. South Africa is the world’s second-largest catamaran producer after France, and any trade barriers imposed on us would likely extend to them as well. Meanwhile, the strategic importance of South African metals and minerals to US industries may influence broader trade negotiations.
6) Are there new certification protocols on the horizon that local builders need to be aware of?
Life Cycle Assessment is becoming a critical factor in manufacturing, and the marine industry is no exception. Fiberglass, notoriously difficult to recycle, presents a major challenge. The French marine sector is leading the way in developing alternatives, offering valuable lessons for global builders. South Africa has the talent and ingenuity to address these issues, and staying ahead of these changes will be key to maintaining our competitive edge. I’m more than happy to assist any company looking to innovate in this area.
7) What makes Blue Peter Marine and IMCI unique?
Some may see us as overly meticulous, but in my 27 years in the industry, I’ve seen how thorough certification protects boatbuilders and designers from costly legal battles. The American system allows manufacturers more freedom, resolving disputes through litigation, while the European approach enforces strict pre-market requirements, offering better long-term security for both builders and consumers. Our goal is peace of mind for our clients. While other providers may offer quicker certification, we focus on quality and real protection.
8) What did you miss most about SA, and what’s your favorite place?
Definitely braaing. A braai is so much more than just cooking meat over a fire—that’s what Aussies do on a gas barbie! Braaing is a way of life, a tradition of gathering, sharing stories, and connecting over the flames. As for my favorite place, it has to be the Karoo. There’s something magical about sitting by a fire pit under a vast, starlit sky with a Klippie and Coke in hand. In that moment, the beauty of the land almost rivals the ocean.
9) What’s the best part of your work?
I really enjoy interacting with boatbuilders and learning about what’s new in their world. I love listening to their stories, watching how they build boats, and helping wherever I can. Over the years, I’ve stayed just involved enough in boatbuilding to truly understand what they need and what goes into making a great boat.
10) If you weren’t in certification, what would you be doing?
If I weren’t in certification, I’d be out sailing—that’s my true passion. There’s nothing quite like the freedom of the open water.