YANMAR Marine International (YMI) has appointed Maarten Zwikker to the newly-created role of Director Operations. Having decades of experience across multiple industries, Maarten’s appointment provides an additional level of quality assurance and operational strength.

Maarten will be leading the enhancement and expansion of YMI's operation function, and he will focus on maximizing efficiency and consistency for the entire product portfolio covering engines, electric propulsion, controls, drives, and parts.

His appointment follows the recent launch of YANMAR’s third-generation control system. The VC30 Vessel Control System was announced at Metstrade 2025, and the first systems will soon be fitted in new power and sail boats. Maarten will be involved with the teams to ensure quality and efficient production of the VC30. He will also be instrumental as YANMAR invests further in new engines and alternative propulsion, including hybrid and electric.

Maarten brings a wealth of operations experience from multiple industries. He joins YANMAR from ASML in Veldhoven, Netherlands, where he held the role of Senior Director Service Products DUV (deep ultraviolet lithography). Prior to that Maarten worked at General Electric’s Gas Engines business based in Austria, where he held executive positions in Quality and Service Operations. Maarten also brings many years of automotive experience from General Motors Europe in Germany, where he held various leadership positions in service and sales operations. Maarten has lived in nine countries and speaks Dutch, English, and German.

He will report to Wouter-Jan van der Wurff, President and CEO of YMI.

Wouter-Jan van der Wurff, President and CEO of YMI said: “We created the Director Operations role to enhance our operational standards. As we continue to expand our portfolio and introduce new and advanced technologies, it becomes even more crucial to enhance operational precision, consistency, and quality assurance. Through his global experience and proven leadership, Maarten will help us further improve customer satisfaction.”

Maarten Zwikker, Director Operations, said: “I am excited to join YANMAR Marine International at such a dynamic moment. YANMAR has a compelling reputation for reliability and innovation, and I look forward to enhancing the operational foundation that supports this. My focus will be ensuring every YANMAR product, from propulsion systems to controls, meets the highest standards.”