Harken commercial director Emanuele Cecchini.

Sailboat hardware manufacturer Harken has promoted Emanuele Cecchini to commercial director of its European, Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and African operations.

Cecchini adds this responsibility to his current role as commercial director of Harken Italy. Cecchini has been a part of the Harken team for 18 years over two eras, seven in his current role.

“I’m confident that having Emanuele in his new role within this revised organisational framework will support and improve Harken’s growth process as a dynamic presence in each area worldwide,” says Matt Malec, Harken COO.

Harken says Cecchini will continue to work closely with Harken managing directors to support their key initiatives, and support channel managers in the development of key accounts.

After graduating from the Architectural University of Rome, Cecchini was a professional sailor for ten years before originally coming to Harken as a domestic (Italy) sales manager in 1996. After leaving the company in 2007 to serve as a commercial leader in series build and custom boat manufacturers, he returned to Harken in 2017, assuming the role in which he continues.

“We’re headquartered in North America, but the markets outside North America are critically important for our long-term success,” says Bill Goggins, Harken CEO. “Emanuele understands this as well as anyone at Harken. He’s a great leader with a genuine desire to serve our customers. We’re confident in his abilities and wish him great success in his new role.”

In April, Harken was named an official supplier by NYYC American Magic, challenger for the 37th America’s Cup, the oldest trophy in international sports.

Harken will supply deck hardware, winches, blocks, and hydraulic components for American Magic’s AC40 and AC75 racing boats.

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