MC-ZERO, the builder of carbon fiber electric jet tenders, has named Chris Baird as its Chief Executive Officer. Baird will oversee the company’s strategic direction, product development and global expansion as MC-ZERO prepares for production, continuing its focus on sustainable yacht tender transport.
Baird brings more than 25 years of experience in marine leadership roles, having previously held senior positions at Navman, Fusion, Garmin, and Propspeed. He has extensive experience leading marine technology companies and building high-performing teams, a background the company says is well suited to this stage of its growth.
MC-ZERO was formed through a partnership between McConaghy Boats and ZeroJet. McConaghy is a racing and luxury yacht builder with more than five decades of experience in carbon composite construction and naval architecture. ZeroJet is a New Zealand-based developer of award-winning 48V electric jet propulsion technology. Baird joins from ZeroJet, where he most recently served as Executive Director of International Sales & Marketing. According to MC-ZERO, the tenders are designed to maximise deck space and utility through features including a movable helm, allowing each vessel to function as an extension of the yacht it serves.
James Morton, CEO of Wave Propulsion Ltd, said Baird’s track record made him “the ideal leader to introduce MC-ZERO to the marketplace.” He said Baird’s deep understanding of customer experience and emerging technologies made him “uniquely qualified to advance our joint mission of delivering the world’s most advanced electric tenders.”
Baird described MC-ZERO as “one of the most exciting innovators in the marine sector,” saying “the team has crafted a truly differentiated product that aligns with the future of boating.” He added that he was looking forward to building on that foundation and delivering on the company’s promise to “Redefine Tenders” for customers worldwide.
Manufacturing preparations are underway on MC-ZERO’s two initial models, a 4.5-metre and a 3.25-metre tender, with deliveries from the McConaghy factory expected to begin in October. The larger model will next be shown publicly at the Cannes and Fort Lauderdale boat shows.
More information is available at www.mc-zerotenders.com.
