MDL strengthens leadership team for growth

MDL Marinas has expanded its senior leadership team with the appointments of Daniel Chown as Financial Director and Sophie Kirkpatrick as Head of Sales and Marketing, as the company prepares to deliver a multi-million-pound 2026/27 growth strategy. 

The business said the new appointments support a major phase of investment aimed at strengthening MDL’s position as the UK’s leading marina group. Alongside infrastructure upgrades, the company is also investing in leadership capability to help guide long-term development. 

Daniel Chown joined MDL late last year and brings 19 years of senior finance experience across a range of sectors. His role includes responsibility for financial strategy, forecasting, governance and operational efficiency as the company moves forward with its investment plans. 

Sophie Kirkpatrick joins with senior leadership experience across leisure, tourism and hospitality. She will lead MDL’s sales and marketing strategy, with a remit covering brand building, customer acquisition, retention and loyalty, product development and revenue growth across its marinas, holiday parks and gym brands. 

MDL’s new financial year will begin with the first phase of capital projects at five marinas. Plans include four new waterfront restaurants, upgraded berth holder facilities, specialist berthing for narrowboats and jet skis, building refurbishments and improved parking.

Across its 19 marinas, MDL will also continue pontoon renewal works, roll out the Meter MACS system, maintain a focus on premium superyacht berthing at Ocean Village Marina, and introduce a Leadership Academy and Career Pathway programme.