“It’s great to be able to combine your hobby with your profession in a beautiful marine environment, where I will
feel honoured to lead Rondal and contribute to the growth and development of a truly extraordinary company.”

When I was asked what one of the most important aspects of my job is, I replied, “I always try to provide the customer with a fit-for-purpose solution by listening first, and hearing what the client needs and wants.” This ensures that the project starts off in a positive way and generally continues to be so, throughout. Being a good sailor doesn’t yet make you good at rigging - experience makes you good at rigging.

At Rondal I am able to combine my passion for sailing with my broad experience, which gives me an enormous boost of energy. Together with our highly experienced service team we build and expand relationships with Rondal’s customers. I look forward to meeting our customers and seeing how we can be of service to them in a way that creates value for both.

"Having worked in Rondal’s engineering department for 20 years, I joined the service team as a Rondal service coordinator 4 years ago. In this capacity, I use my enthusiasm and determination to assist our customers as much as possible, and coordinate a wide range of service jobs to a successful conclusion."

“If I had to choose just a few words about my role at Rondal, they would probably be ’variety’, ‘stimulation’, ‘challenge’ and ‘reward’. There really is never a dull moment for me here. I specialize in sail handling systems – spars, rigging, booms, winches and feeders – and, as any sailor knows, this is the ‘sharp end’ of sailing, where the excitement and responsibility must come together. I have overseen production and delivery of rig packages (doors too) for many high profile projects.”

"From an early age on, I have had an enormous intrinsic interest in a wide variety of technologies and the Dutch shipbuilding industry. In my opinion, there is nothing better than being able to combine these two worlds. I’m always looking for opportunities to improve both myself and my environment, and as it happens, this is synonymous with Rondals philosophy. Think ahead!"

“In every project we learn 2 or 3 new things, sometimes more. This can be small things like where to place the halyard clutch or a whole new design at the head of the mast. Collaboration leads to the successful outcome of our projects but on a human level, adds friendships, respect and interest in our individual lives.”

When I turned 18, I moved to Genova to study yacht engineering, I fell in love with the physics and engineering that moves a sailing yacht through the water. I continued my studies in the Netherlands, specializing on composite structures and offshore loads (wind and waves). At Rondal, I design the masts from concept to handing over the engineering and service details to the captain and crew.

Gerard is leading the internal development of the Rondal hatch program at the moment but also oversees the design and build of entrances, windbreaks and companionways. Gerard’s end goal is to unburden the client. “It’s the small things that are most easily forgotten, however it’s also the small things that make the difference.”

When I spotted the opportunity to be responsible for finances at Rondal, I immediately became enthusiastic. During my Finance studies, I realized that a function in controlling would be the perfect job for me. Working in the sailing industry has always been a dream of mine. Being part of the Rondal team and supporting its growth potential makes me feel very proud.