NextBoat Appoints Ross Tannenbaum as CEO
News related to:NextBoat Inc · 2 min read
WILMINGTON, N.C., September 29, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- NextBoat Inc., a vertically integrated, technology-driven marine marketplace, has appointed Ross Tannenbaum as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Tannenbaum, who previously served as President and CEO of Dreams, Inc., and held several senior executive roles at Fanatics, Inc., will lead the company as it transitions from building its public-company foundation to driving profitability and expanding its national reach.
Tannenbaum's appointment marks a significant step in NextBoat's strategic evolution.
NextBoat, founded in 2012, operates across boat brokerage, wholesale inventory acquisition, auctions, financing, and marine services. The company is one of the largest buyers and sellers of used boats in the United States and is positioned to build a more connected and efficient marine marketplace. Tannenbaum's experience in scaling consumer businesses and his track record in public company leadership make him an ideal fit for the role.
Tannenbaum will succeed Brian John, who will remain on the Board of Directors to support a smooth transition. John's continued involvement will ensure a seamless handover of responsibilities. Tannenbaum's appointment is part of NextBoat's ambitious new chapter, focusing on disciplined execution, sustainable profitability, and long-term shareholder value.
In connection with Tannenbaum's appointment, the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors approved the grant of non-qualified stock options to purchase up to 2,500,000 shares of the Company's common stock. The options are being granted outside of the Company's 2025 Equity Incentive Plan as an inducement material to Tannenbaum's entry into employment with the Company, in reliance on the employment inducement exception under Section 711(a) of the NYSE American Company Guide.
The awards consist of: 1. Options to purchase 1,000,000 shares, of which 200,000 vest on the date of grant and the remainder vest in 48 equal monthly installments. 2. Options to purchase 1,000,000 shares that vest in four equal tranches upon the Company achieving specified levels of Adjusted EBITDA. 3. Options to purchase 500,000 shares that vest if the volume-weighted average price of the Company's common stock is $5.00 or greater over 60 consecutive trading days, in each case subject to Tannenbaum's continued employment and to accelerated vesting in specified circumstances.
The options have a term of ten years. This arrangement is designed to align Tannenbaum's interests with those of the company's shareholders and to incentivize him to drive the company's growth and profitability.
NextBoat's CEO, Ross Tannenbaum, expressed excitement about his new role.
With an expanding national footprint, a growing portfolio of marine brands, proprietary technology, and capabilities spanning brokerage, wholesale acquisition, financing, and service, NextBoat is well-positioned to transform the marine industry. The company aims to build a more connected and efficient marine marketplace while pursuing sustainable growth and long-term value for shareholders.