Al Boom Marine announces the appointment of Steven Holbrook as the company's new CEO. Al Boom Marine has, over the past 20 years, established itself as a leader within the Gulf retail and leisure industry. Holbrook's appointment as CEO comes with a view to streamline retail operations, expand their portfolio of distribution brands and to take their retail store portfolio, including its own Beyond The Beach, outside of the UAE.
Holbrook has over 8 years experience within the Middle East in both Retail Management and Business Development. In his most recent role he headed up Business Development at Dubai's Nakheel Retailcorp, playing a strategic role in the company's brand acquisition drive, retail expansion, growth and development from its inception in 2004.
Al Boom Marine was founded by Adel Al Sumait and Marc Armstrong. In 1990, the Kuwaiti and British duo established what is now the leading provider of water sports equipment and lifestyle beachwear clothing and accessories in the GCC. They are the regions partner for some of the most distinguished lifestyle brands in the world, including Oakley, Rip Curl, O'Neill, Tommy Bahama, Zoggs, Skins, Hurley, HO Sports, Hyperlite, Liquid Force and North to name but a few. Their retail portfolio currently consists of 17 Beyond the Beach stores, 2 Al Boom Marine outlets, as well as 2 Tommy Bahama, 1 Oakley and 1 Rip Curl concept stores.
Marc Armstrong said: "We are thrilled that Steven is bringing his expertise and vision to the group, his joining is a testament to Al Boom Marine's commitment to the region and heralds an exciting new chapter for us"
Steven began his career in retail in the late 90's, fast-tracking through the Debenhams Graduate Training Scheme and quickly making a name for himself in the award winning Croydon Management Team. In 2001, he relocated to Saudi Arabia where, as Operations Manager for Aldo Shoes, he facilitated the launch of the brand across the country.
Commenting on his new appointment, Steven said "I am really looking forward to leading the team at Al Boom Marine. I believe that beyond providing world class lifestyle and leisure brands to the GCC, Al Boom Marine is a home grown brand that is both inspirational and forward thinking, with a young dynamic team full of tremendous potential. This year, whilst other retailers are feeling the pinch, we will be opening several new stores and will expand our brand portfolio with the addition of some exciting new world class brands.”
