Hendry Marine appoints new business development team

(TAMPA, Fla.) — Tug and barge shipyard Hendry Marine Industries has announced its new business development team. Kristen Chittenden has been appointed director of business development, and Eric Smith has been named vice president and chief commercial officer.

Chittenden and Smith will work closely with the CEO and the executive leadership team at Hendry Marine and its various subsidiaries to set company strategy and develop new business opportunities.

“Kristen and Eric bring a wealth of experience in the maritime industry and will do an excellent job leading our new business efforts,” said Jim Long, Hendry Marine CEO and president.

Chittenden has served as associate general counsel for Hendry Marine for the past three years, where she advised senior management on a range of business and legal matters. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in business administration at the University of Tampa.

Smith was previously chief commercial officer for Overseas Shipholding Group, where he was responsible for business development as well as the chartering and commercial operations of the company’s 24-vessel fleet.

“I am looking forward to serving the company in this new capacity and to continuing the Hendry legacy,” said Chittenden. “Eric and I have hit the ground running. We are looking for partnerships, joint ventures, alliances — anything we can do to enhance the service for our customers while simultaneously growing our company.”

“The opportunity to be part of this legacy organization and help shape its future is one I embrace wholeheartedly,” Smith said of HMI. The Tampa maritime and port community, combined with HMI, is an integral and unique part of our regions fabric. I am proud to be aligned with both.”

Hendry Corp. 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 marine-related services, including gas-freeing through Universal Environmental Solutions and repair through Gulf Marine.

By Professional Mariner Staff