Damen Yachting Managing Director Rose Damen has been honoured with the International Superyacht Society (ISS) Leadership Award. The accolade was presented on 29 October during the ISS Awards ceremony and gala at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, held as part of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) 2025.
Recognised as one of the leading voices shaping the future of the superyacht industry, Rose Damen combines long-term family values with a forward-looking vision for innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. As a third-generation shareholder of Damen Shipyards Group, she has guided Damen Yachting through a new era of award-winning designs such as the Amels 60 and Amels 80, while advancing the company’s sustainability ambitions through initiatives like “Love Our Oceans”. She has also been a strong advocate for diversity through the Women in Yachting programme, helping to create a more inclusive industry for future generations.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this award from my peers, but I accept it on behalf of the entire Damen Yachting team,” said Rose Damen. “One person cannot build a yacht; it requires passion, craftsmanship, and skill from many hands working together. Leadership, for me, means taking care of our fleet, our crew, our staff, and the oceans we all depend on. This award is a recognition of their dedication as much as my own.”
The ISS Leadership Award is among the most prestigious honours in the global superyacht industry. It recognises individuals whose vision, commitment, and influence have made a lasting impact on the sector. What makes the award particularly significant is its peer-to-peer nature: nominations are made by the ISS Board of Directors, while the final recipient is chosen by a committee of past award winners – making Rose Damen’s recognition a true mark of esteem from fellow industry leaders.
