(TAMPA, Fla.) — Hendry Marine Industries Inc. (HMI) and Gulf Marine Repair Corp., one of the Southeast’s leading tug-barge shipyards, have announced the hiring of Jim Long as chief executive officer. Long will focus on business improvement and long-term planning for Hendry Marine, Gulf Marine and all their affiliated companies. He started on the job Jan. 18.
Gulf Marine recently consolidated with Hendry Corp. to improve operations and better position the company for growth. The hiring of Long as the CEO is part of that consolidation plan.
“This is an exciting time to join the talented team at Gulf Marine,” said Long. “I look forward to building on the legacy of this organization, helping the company move into the future with focus, flexibility and competitiveness.”
Long comes to HMI and Gulf Marine after having served as chief executive officer for several companies, including a billion-dollar environmental services company. During his tenure with other companies, Long integrated various business units with a focus on growth.
A Polk County, Fla., native who graduated from Florida Southern College, Long is excited to be a part of and contribute to the future growth of not only Gulf Marine, but the entire Tampa Bay region as well.
“This area has everything,” said Long. “Great natural resources, a strong port and a tremendous work force. It’s my goal to leverage all of these positives to make Gulf Marine and this entire area even better.”
Gulf Marine and Hendry Corp. have a rich history in Tampa Bay. The original company was started by Capt. F.M. Hendry 90 years ago to provide oyster shells for roads and other construction projects. Over the decades, the company added dredging and many other maritime services. It is now a one-stop shop for tug-barge units, providing gas-freeing through Universal Environmental Solutions and repairs through Gulf Marine. The company also recently created an employee stock ownership plan, which allows all team members to participate in the financial success of the company.
“We’ve always been fortunate to have strong leadership at Gulf Marine,” said Dennis Manelli, general counsel and chief financial officer. “I’m confident Jim Long will continue that legacy and lead us to even greater heights.”
