Simon Brazier
, Chairman
Simon Brazier, a seasoned fund manager, brings a unique blend of financial acumen and luxury expertise to Ratsey & Lapthorn. His academic background includes the AMP from Harvard University, an Executive Masters in Luxury Management from SDA Bocconi, and a BA (Hons) in Economics and French from Durham/Aix-Marseilles.
Jim Hartley
, CEO
As CEO of the organisation since 2017, Jim Hartley is a seasoned sailing industry veteran who has driven Ratsey and Lapthorn's global expansion and project wins, leveraging his previous expertise from founding Quba Sails and Aloft.
Gonzalo Romagosa
, Barcelona Loft Manager
Sailmaking has always been a part of Gonzalo’s life, with his father teaching him many of his skills growing up in Spain. He leads our operations in the Mediterranean and is a highly accomplished sail designer in his own right.
Matthew (Matt) Robison
, Head Sailmaker
Hailing from the Isle of Wight, Matt has sailed from a young age, and is an accomplished instructor. He served his apprenticeship at Ratsey & Lapthorn in the traditional way, and with over 10 years at the loft, he is now our head sailmaker.
Sam Lee
, Sailmaker
A highly respected craftsman renowned for his quality and expertise, Sam Lee has honed his skills and is a specialist in the fine art of hand finishing.
Hattie Dumas
, Apprentice Sailmaker
Hattie is a passionate sailmaking apprentice with a deep-rooted connection to classic East Coast boats. She grew up on Mersea Island and started sailing in her Opi and her grandparents' boat Ivy Green, an Ed Burnett-designed Gaff Cutter.
Rowena Olden
, Cover Maker
Ro is a multi-skilled sailmaker who now focuses on our range of covers and awnings for our customers who not only hail from the sailing arena, but also from the domestic, military, and industrial sectors.
Andrew Cassell
, Classic Sail Designer and Advisor
From humble beginnings sailing a homemade craft, Andy’s lifelong pursuit of speed has yielded a glittering trophy cabinet, culminating in Olympic gold for Great Britain at the Atlanta games. His unparalleled expertise in classic boats and sail design makes him a highly respected and sought-after authority.
Richard Martch
, Master Sailmaker
Richard, a seasoned Master Sailmaker, joined Ratsey & Lapthorn in 1989. With over three decades of expertise, he is renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship, from design to repair. His dedication to traditional techniques ensures the highest quality in every sail.
Riya Sarkar
, Project Manager
An Oxford MBA graduate, Riya has a keen eye for process and has previously worked in architectural conservation and the tourism industry across India and Switzerland.
Janine Hawkins
, Archivist
Specialising in archival restoration and digitisation, Janine methodically works through our extensive archives to ensure that these invaluable documents and records are digitised for future generations.
Lucy Beatt
, Cowes Office Manager
Lucy’s 10-year sailing career includes four seasons in Greece as a working sailor, undertaking delivery trips and boatyard work. Now running our loft in Cowes, her IT background further equips her for this diverse role.
Deborah Lloyd
, Creative Director
Highly experienced Creative Director specialising in developing and revitalising heritage brands, Deborah is an alumna of the RCA with a successful international career working with brands ranging from Burberry to Kate Spade.
Jenna Littler
, Advisor
Jenna is an independent advisor to leading businesses in luxury retail, fashion, and beauty. She was previously a Senior Vice President at Burberry PLC, where her leadership responsibilities over twelve years spanned Communications, Strategy, Wholesale, and Retail. She has previously worked with McKinsey & Company and for the UK Government. Jenna serves as a Trustee of the Design Museum and Art Academy London. She is a Visiting Fellow at the University of Oxford and sits on the board of advisors for the Academy of Management Perspectives.
Beth Hillier
, Product Development
Beth is an experienced product developer in all areas of apparel and accessories, specialising in bespoke, custom-made production runs.