TPG Marinas Appoints John O’Connor as Executive Vice President of Marina Operations
- TPG Marinas
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
With continued growth across TPG Marinas’ East Coast portfolio, the company has expanded its leadership team with the appointment of John O'Connor as Executive Vice President of Marina Operations. Based in Cranston, Rhode Island, John brings nearly 30 years of marine industry experience, combining hands-on technical expertise with strategic leadership.
CRANSTON, RI - TPG Marinas is proud to announce the addition of John O’Connor as Executive Vice President of Marina Operations, a role that will oversee the company’s growing portfolio of premier marina destinations along the East Coast.
A lifelong Rhode Islander and the son of a career Coast Guard officer, John’s connection to the water began at an early age and has shaped every chapter of his professional life. With nearly three decades of experience across all facets of the marine industry, from hands-on technical work to senior leadership, he brings a wealth of knowledge and vision to the TPG Marinas executive team.
A Career Built on the Water
John began his maritime journey as a deckhand in Newport Harbor, where his passion for seamanship and operations quickly led to opportunities aboard tall ships, motor yachts, and offshore sailing vessels around the world. Over the course of his career, he logged more than 200,000 miles offshore, gaining a firsthand understanding of vessel performance, crew management, and the intricate demands of global yacht operations.
Upon returning home to Rhode Island to start a family, John transitioned from open-ocean life to boatbuilding and service operations, honing his expertise as a carpenter, painter, rigger, mechanic, and electrician for several of New England’s most respected boatbuilders, dealerships, and brokerage houses.
His deep technical foundation, combined with years of practical field experience, laid the groundwork for a successful move into marine operations leadership.
From Technical Mastery to Strategic Leadership
Over the years, John has completed extensive technical training and holds multiple American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) certifications, along with accreditations from several leading marine engine, electrical, and electronics manufacturers. His broad understanding of both the technical and operational sides of the business has been instrumental in driving efficiency and performance at scale.
Before joining TPG Marinas, John served in a senior leadership position at Safe Harbor Marinas, where he oversaw a portfolio of approximately 20 marinas throughout the Northeast. His leadership approach, focused on safety, consistency, and team development, helped elevate operational standards across every property under his guidance.
A Vision for Growth and Excellence
At TPG Marinas, John will lead the company’s operations across its East Coast network, working closely with property managers, service departments, and the executive team to enhance quality, strengthen performance, and ensure every marina continues to deliver exceptional experiences to members and guests.
About John
When he is not leading operations, John enjoys spending time on the water with his family along Rhode Island’s coastline. His lifelong connection to boating and his ability to unite teams through shared passion and purpose embody the spirit of TPG Marinas.
TPG Marinas is excited to welcome John O'Connor to the leadership team and looks forward to his contributions as the company continues to grow and innovate across its expanding marina network.
About TPG Marinas
TPG Marinas owns and operates a collection of full-service marina destinations along the East Coast, offering premier dockage, yacht services, and marine expertise. Through a focus on operational excellence, safety, and personalized service, TPG Marinas continues to redefine the modern marina experience.
Learn more at tpgmarinas.com.
