Southern Spars announces new management team for Rig Pro International
Southern Spars is pleased to announce the new Rig Pro International management team, led by Des Davis and supported by
Gavin McPherson. Both Davis and McPherson are extremely passionate sailors and have a wealth of experience in the
yachting industry that will see them take Rig Pro from strength to strength. The duo is committed to continuing to grow
the existing market share and reputation of the global Rig Pro network.
Having worked for Rig Pro International for over a year, Davis will now oversee every aspect of the Rig Pro
International operation, managing the Rig Pro International team with efficiency and ensuring a smooth experience for
customers. Hailing from the South Island of New Zealand Davis cites sailing as his true passion, and also rebuilds
classic yachts in his spare time. “I am looking forward to leading Rig Pro International to being the ultimate solution
to all things above the deck,” he says. Customer service is a passion and in his time at Rig Pro International to date
Davis has been focused on growing the business into a more customer focused service network with the introduction of the
Infusion management system.
“The Infusion system has increased the customer service by better database management, financial tracking and pricing,
which in turn has allowed for better planned lead times and customer management”, he says. “I am confident with the
support of Gavin and Southern Spars that we can manage emergency work, planned warranty work, rebuilds, change outs,
design and manufacture far more efficiently than we have done so in the past”.
Supporting Davis in his role, McPherson’s main remit will be to manage the planned and emergency work for Rig Pro
International customers, facilitating co-ordination between the customer and Southern Spars and Rig Pro International
teams. A background in engineering and sailing, together with extensive knowledge of the products and how they are used
and abused places him in good stead for this role. Having learnt to sail in Tauranga, McPherson began his sailing career
racing One Design models, before progressing to working with some of the world’s most prestigious yachts and marine
companies, including a stint as boat captain on Alpha Romeo II.
“I have always seen Southern Spars as a great company with excellent products and I am delighted to be a part of it and
help make a great company greater,” he says. “My goal is to help build the service department into a recognised and
integral part of the Southern Spars brand, providing the best mast solutions in the world as a whole.” McPherson says
his long-term focus is to continually increase the high efficiency and effectiveness of the company to make it easier
for staff and customers to achieve the best solutions.
A division of Southern Spars, Rig Pro International provides a comprehensive mobile refit and repair service for all
yachts and rigs with service points in New Zealand, South Africa, the USA and Spain. The team regularly work with some
of the world’s most spectacular yachts. An impressive new base in the heart of Auckland’s marine district has meant
invaluable increased capacity and waterfront access for the Rig Pro NZ team.
ENDS