Burger Boat Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Burger Boat has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, operational management, and market expansion.

Focused on delivering unparalleled luxury at sea, Burger Boat designs and builds custom yachts that integrate advanced technology with exquisite craftsmanship to fulfill unique client visions.

Leadership Roles at Burger Boat

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Nicholas Siler
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - James Ruffolo
  • Chief Financial Officer - Thomas Connor
  • Co-President - David Ross
  • Chief Sales & Marketing Officer - Richard Thompson
  • Nicholas Siler - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Nicholas Siler, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Burger Boat, directs the overarching strategic vision for custom yacht manufacturing. Siler oversees the integration of advanced naval architecture with client-specific design requirements to maintain market leadership. By coordinating with internal engineering teams and external designers, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures every vessel meets rigorous quality standards. This leadership role involves driving North American operations while expanding the global footprint of the brand. Nicholas Siler manages the long-term growth trajectory, focusing on innovation in luxury maritime engineering. Through constant evaluation of production efficiency and material sourcing, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures the reputation of the company for excellence. Siler maintains alignment between the board and operational departments to guarantee that every custom project reflects the heritage and technical precision expected from the shipyard.
    Nicholas Siler

    James Ruffolo - President & Chief Executive Officer

    James Ruffolo, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Burger Boat, manages the complex refit and repair services division for commercial and vintage fleets. Ruffolo focuses on the technical restoration of legacy vessels, ensuring that modern safety and performance standards integrate seamlessly with historical craftsmanship. The President & Chief Executive Officer coordinates with specialized fabrication teams to deliver bespoke solutions for unique maritime challenges. By overseeing the operational logistics of the shipyard, James Ruffolo optimizes resource allocation for large-scale refit projects. This role involves managing client relationships during the lifecycle of complex repair contracts to ensure satisfaction and project success. The President & Chief Executive Officer drives the modernization of internal processes to improve turnaround times for international clients. Ruffolo maintains a rigorous focus on technical accuracy, ensuring that every refit project upholds the high standards of the company while supporting the broader mission of delivering memorable experiences at sea.

    Thomas Connor - Chief Financial Officer

    Thomas Connor, the Chief Financial Officer at Burger Boat, directs the fiscal strategy and capital allocation for all custom yacht manufacturing initiatives. Connor manages the financial health of the organization by overseeing budgeting, procurement, and long-term investment in advanced shipbuilding technology. The Chief Financial Officer ensures that complex projects remain profitable while maintaining the high-quality standards required for luxury vessels. By analyzing market trends and operational costs, Thomas Connor provides the data necessary for strategic decision-making across the executive team. This role involves managing relationships with financial partners and stakeholders to support the growth of the company. The Chief Financial Officer monitors the economic impact of regional market fluctuations, ensuring stability for the shipyard. Through precise financial planning and risk management, Connor secures the resources needed for innovation, allowing the company to continue delivering exquisite craftsmanship to a global clientele.
    Thomas Connor

    David Ross - Co-President

    David Ross, the Co-President at Burger Boat, oversees the daily production operations and the execution of custom yacht builds. Ross manages the collaboration between naval architects and the production floor to ensure that every design detail translates into a high-performance vessel. The Co-President drives efficiency in the manufacturing process, implementing new technologies to enhance the structural integrity of luxury yachts. By coordinating with department heads, David Ross ensures that project timelines align with client expectations and corporate goals. This leadership role involves managing the workforce and maintaining the high standards of craftsmanship that define the company. The Co-President monitors the progress of multiple concurrent builds, resolving operational bottlenecks to maintain steady output. Through active management of the shipyard environment, Ross supports the delivery of superior maritime products, ensuring that every vessel reflects the commitment to innovation and quality that characterizes the brand.

    Richard Thompson - Chief Sales & Marketing Officer

    Richard Thompson, the Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at Burger Boat, directs the global outreach and brand positioning for custom yacht services. Thompson manages the acquisition of new clients by articulating the value of bespoke design and advanced maritime technology. The Chief Sales & Marketing Officer oversees the development of marketing campaigns that highlight the 160-year history and craftsmanship of the company. By engaging with potential owners and industry partners, Richard Thompson drives the growth of the order book across international markets. This role involves aligning sales strategies with the production capacity of the shipyard to ensure sustainable growth. The Chief Sales & Marketing Officer monitors competitive trends to refine the market approach and maintain the premium status of the brand. Through strategic communication and relationship management, Thompson ensures that the vision of the company reaches a discerning global audience, ultimately supporting the long-term success of the business.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Burger Boat Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Burger Boat?
    Burger Boat is led by Nicholas Siler (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as James Ruffolo (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Thomas Connor (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Burger Boat’s executive team?
    The executive team of Burger Boat includes leaders such as Nicholas Siler (President & Chief Executive Officer), James Ruffolo (President & Chief Executive Officer), Thomas Connor (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Burger Boat have?
    Burger Boat has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Burger Boat’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Burger Boat includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Co-President, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer.