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Jeremy Ward
Managing Director at East By West Ferries
Professional Background
Jeremy Ward is a highly regarded figure in the realms of tourism and marine transport in New Zealand. As the Managing Director of East By West Ferries, he has dedicated over three decades to revolutionizing ferry services in Wellington. Evolving from a humble commuter service into a vibrant tourist attraction, East By West Ferries has become synonymous with Wellington's maritime identity under his astute leadership. His commitment to quality service and sustainable practices has not only enhanced the operational efficiency of the ferries but has also significantly contributed to the local tourism economy, drawing visitors from around the globe.
With an extensive background in research and development, Mr. Ward's expertise extends to various sectors within the tourism and transport industries. His previous ventures have included operation and innovation in interisland ferry services, scenic cable cars, and tram services, making him a pivotal figure in shaping New Zealand's transportation landscape. Moreover, as a distinguished committee member and former President of the New Zealand Marine Transport Association (NZMTA) for ten years, he has represented over a hundred marine transport operators across New Zealand, advocating for the interests of ferry, charter boat, and tourist vessel operators and thereby cementing his status as a leader in the maritime sector.
Beyond his role in the ferry industry, Mr. Ward is an esteemed Maritime Transport & Tourism Consultant, having worked on various high-impact marine transport and tourism projects in both New Zealand and Australia. His strong ties to the community and the sector are evident through his participation in the NZ Maritime Forum, where he collaborates with other professionals to shape the future of maritime activities in the region. Furthermore, his commitment to fostering entrepreneurship extends to his appointment on the government-established Small Business Development Group from 2012 to 2018, where he provided critical insights to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
In addition to East By West Ferries, Mr. Ward plays an instrumental role in Timber Trail Adventures Limited (TTA), where he is a Director and original Shareholder/Promoter. TTA has successfully launched the environmentally focused Mountain Bike Lodge on the prestigious Timber Trail in the Central North Island, showcasing his dedication to sustainable tourism and community development.
Education and Achievements
Jeremy's academic journey began at Christ's College in Christchurch, a prestigious institution that laid the foundation for his future achievements. He pursued higher education at the University of Canterbury, graduating with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB). This educational background has significantly contributed to his understanding of the legal frameworks governing the marine transport and tourism sectors.
Throughout his career, Mr. Ward's innovative ideas and forward-thinking strategies have led to numerous accomplishments, notably his current project involving the development of the first fully electric, zero-emission passenger ferry in the Southern Hemisphere. This groundbreaking initiative signifies not only a technological advancement in the maritime industry but also reflects his unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation. The ferry, measuring 18.5 meters in length and designed to carry 135 passengers, will provide an eco-friendly transport option while cruising at speeds of 20 knots. It is set to be launched by Christmas 2020, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward greener transport solutions.
To facilitate this ambitious project and future endeavors, Mr. Ward established the Wellington Electric Boat Building Company Limited (WEBB). Through this company, he aims to further enhance the capabilities of New Zealand's maritime sector, embracing sustainable and innovative practices that align with the country's environmental goals.
Achievements
- Founding of East By West Ferries: Established a prominent commuter and tourist ferry service in Wellington, which has grown to become a major attraction over 30 years.
- Leadership in NZMTA: Served as a committee member and past President for a decade, playing a vital role in advocating for over 100 marine transport operators in New Zealand.
- Small Business Development Group: Contributed to the government's initiative aimed at advising on matters concerning small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), reflecting his commitment to fostering business growth and entrepreneurship.
- Innovative Projects: Currently overseeing the construction and commissioning of the Southern Hemisphere's first fully electric, zero-emission passenger ferry, setting new standards for sustainable marine transport.
- Founder of Wellington Electric Boat Building Company: Established a company dedicated to building and innovating sustainable maritime vessels, positioned to spearhead future marine transport solutions in New Zealand.
- Contribution to Sustainable Tourism: Instrumental in the development of Timber Trail Adventures Limited and its Mountain Bike Lodge, promoting eco-friendly tourism and adventure experiences in the Central North Island.
Conclusion
Jeremy Ward is a stellar figure in the fields of marine transport and tourism, consistently leading initiatives that prioritize sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. His extensive experience, coupled with his legal education, provides a solid foundation for his continuous contributions to New Zealand's tourism landscape. As he embarks on new projects and establishes pathways for greener transportation solutions, Mr. Ward's influence will likely shape the direction of marine transport in New Zealand for years to come.
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Mesh is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Mesh beneficial.
Mesh offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Mesh offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Mesh's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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