The California Yacht Brokers Association (CYBA) has announced a leadership transition aimed at strengthening its legislative advocacy efforts and expanding services for its members across the state.
Dean West has been appointed President of the Board of Directors, while outgoing President Mark P. White will step into the role of Executive Director. The move reflects a strategic effort by the association to build on its existing foundation while positioning itself for continued growth within the marine industry.
West brings a long history of involvement with the CYBA to his new role. A current Director and former Past President, he has played a key role in representing the association on a national level, particularly through his participation in the American Boating Congress in Washington, D.C. His previous work as Ethics and Legislative Chair helped strengthen the organization’s regulatory presence and reinforce professional standards among its members. With his appointment, the association is expected to maintain a strong voice on both state and federal issues affecting yacht brokers.
At the same time, White’s transition into the Executive Director position allows the CYBA to expand its operational focus. After serving as President, he will now direct efforts toward several key initiatives, including national marine-industry litigation, sponsorship and membership growth, and increased participation in major boat shows. These areas are seen as critical to broadening the association’s reach and supporting brokers in an increasingly complex marketplace.
The leadership shift comes at a time of continued growth for the organization. The CYBA has seen increased engagement through its widely used contract-forms platform and its arbitration system, both of which are designed to provide structure, consistency, and protection for brokers and their clients.
According to the CYBA Board of Directors, the transition represents an important step forward for the organization. With West’s focus on legislative advocacy and White’s emphasis on operational expansion, the association aims to further support the yachting community while maintaining high ethical and professional standards.
Founded to promote integrity and professionalism within the yacht brokerage industry, the CYBA provides education, resources, and advocacy to help its members navigate the evolving demands of the marine marketplace.
