The YESSSS team
We Take The Marine Industry Seriously.
We are a team of qualified and experienced individuals with a proven and successful track record in growing marine businesses.
Nona Pedersen
Founder | Joint CEO, Director of Marketing
9 years experience in the marine industry, 5 years senior leadership experience
Bachelor of Business - Double Major in Marketing & Management, Minor in Sales.
2020 Boating Industry Women Making Waves
2020 Boating Industry 40 under 40
2022 Panellist in the first Women in Marine International Event at METS Trade Show
“Marketing is my happy place and my passion. This is what drove me to start YESSSS. I wanted to work with great marine companies and provide them with world-class marketing services, targeted to the marine industry. My experience is not limited to marketing, and I have worked across all business functions. This enables me to understand the big picture, think strategically, and ensure everything we do is with purpose and direction. I am a people person and build true partnerships that last.”
Chris Baird
Joint CEO, Director of Business Development
31 years experience of leading marine businesses such as NAVMAN, FUSION, and Propspeed.
Associate Fellow of the Institute of Management and Leaders Australia & New Zealand
Expert knowledge in global and local go to market strategies.
Strong builder of business relationships that have weathered financial shocks and tough economic periods.
Excellent Marketing and Sales skills built from 25 years of hands on experience covering B2C and B2B.
Strong focus on Sales and Bottom line operation of businesses.
“I partner closely with senior leadership teams, offering the expertise and guidance they need to elevate their businesses. Whether it's providing advice on markets, how to gain more market-share, exit strategies or rolling up my sleeves to handle in-market tasks, I’m always committed on delivering results. I strive for win-win-win outcomes, and I'm ready to step in wherever necessary to turn our clients' goals into reality or to help with a successful exit.”
Eve Verberne
Marketing Director - North America
7 years marketing experience, with 4.5 years in the marine industry.
Bachelor of Business – Double Major in Marketing & International Business
Originally from New Zealand, Eve has lived in the USA, UK, and now resides in Canada. This has allowed her to foster a deep understanding of diverse markets and consumer behaviours.
“I am passionate about learning and development both personally and professionally. My goal-orientated mindset drives me to achieve ambitious business objectives. When I'm not strategising success for our clients, you can find me outdoors, hiking, snowboarding, and everything in between.”
Holly Mills
Digital Marketing Strategist
Over 5 years of experience in the marine industry.
Bachelor of Communications - Major in Digital Media
Specialises in social media growth strategy, content creation, video editing account management, and website UX design.
Completed 6 Coastal Classics and participated in numerous regattas.
Year-round competitive sailing with the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron.
First time on a boat: Six weeks old.
“In my role I get to blend two of my passions: boating and digital media. I have always had a deep love of the ocean and spend as much time on the water as possible. My experience and understanding of boats makes it easy for me to create targeted digital marketing activations.
I especially love working on content and campaigns that have dogs, so if you have any dog products for the marine industry, please work with us!”
Kate Leon-Brown
Client Success Manager
3 years in the Marine Industry working on special projects and supporting senior leadership teams.
Bachelor of Science - Double Major Marine Biology and Geospatial Science.
Established two small start-up companies in Auckland.
Passionate about business growth and expansion.
"My passion for the ocean led me to a degree in science. But by 21, I had launched two small businesses and was intrigued by the fast-paced world of business.
Today, I thrive in our Client Success Manager role that also incorporates aspects of marketing. The greatest satisfaction comes from seeing our clients succeed – whether it's an award nomination, a digital platform they're proud of, or an exciting future on the horizon."
Jess Lane
Graphic Design Specialist
5+ years graphic design experience, 2.5 years experience in the marine industry.
Bachelor of Media Design - majoring in Graphic Design.
Experience in brand creation, print and digital design, packaging design and illustration.
“A graphic design unicorn who doesn’t get offended when you provide constructive feedback. Anyone who has worked with creative people understands how rare this is.” - Chris Baird, Joint CEO.
“From a young age I have always been passionate about anything and everything creative, making my decision to study design and easy one. Since graduating in 2019 I have worked professionally as both a freelancer and in-house designer for an industry leading marine company. My role now with YESSSS consists of creating design assets for our clients, from rebrands to resources and everything in between. I love utilising my creativity to help businesses create strong brand identities that stand out in the industry.'“
