MINNEAPOLIS, February 8 – The Marine Retailers Association of the America announced today that it has added four new employees in Design Coordinator Grace Schmidt, Online Education Manager Angela Murphy, Sales & Marketing Specialist Gabrielle Ronnenberg and Membership Specialist Jennifer McLachlan.
“We are delighted to add these outstanding individuals to the MRAA team and continue to build a stronger organization that enables us to better deliver on our mission,” says Matt Gruhn, MRAA President. “Their expertise and skillsets will help us deliver greater value for our dealers and the industry, while also contributing to the continuous enhancement of our programs and services.”
Grace Schmidt — Design Coordinator
Schmidt will coordinate and execute design projects, including graphics, publications and advertisements, related to MRAA marketing and education-based deliverables. Schmidt, who holds a bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, has professional experience as a freelance designer and artist. In her free time, she loves painting, playing cards with her family and exploring new cities with friends.
“In my beginning days with the MRAA I have had only incredible things to say about the people, vision and drive that this company is made up of,” says Schmidt. “I strive to be a lifelong learner and have found myself feeling so thankful to work in a place that prioritizes education and growth both internally and externally!”
Angela Murphy — Online Education Manager
Murphy will manage MRAATraining.com, MRAA’s Continuous Certification Curriculum, Dealer Week Online, MRAA’s Ask the Expert Webinar series and other e-learning products. Murphy, who has a Master’s Degree in Education with a focus in Technology Integration, brings a wealth of educational proficiency, having served as a schoolteacher for many years. Outside of work, she enjoys crafting and spending time with her family. Her idea of the perfect day is floating on the lake in the family boat.
“I couldn’t be prouder and more excited to be a part of such a passionate team that has such a deep-rooted dedication to supporting and serving boat dealers and the entire marine industry,” says Murphy. “I am honored to be able to support the industry by creating and managing educational content that helps dealers succeed and improve their business outcomes.”
Gabrielle Ronnenberg — Sales & Marketing Specialist
Ronnenberg will oversee deliverables for MRAA’s Partner Memberships and Dealer Week exhibitors and will work with the MRAA sales and marketing teams on specialty projects. Ronnenberg, who holds a bachelor’s degree in Global Communication and Media Studies, has previous expertise in customer service, marketing and communications roles for legal, medical, tax and accounting and non-profit industries. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, participating in outdoor activities and drawing.
“MRAA’s strong emphasis on investing in employee development and creating a fun and welcoming office culture is what drew me to apply for this position,” says Ronnenberg. “It is clear to see how passionate everyone who works here is about cultivating a thriving boating industry – and it’s very easy to get behind that mission.”
Jennifer McLachlan — Membership Specialist
McLachlan will create, implement and monitor member onboarding, engagement and retention plans for MRAA. McLachlan, who has a degree in Marketing and Professional Sales, previously worked for a boat dealer as a service writer and warranty administrator. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading, boating and baking.
“I’m excited to join such a dedicated and passionate team of people,” says McLachlan. “I feel that my background will provide a unique perspective and allow me to support dealers and retailers in their continued success.”
About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.
