Hornblower Group Welcomes Shull Autin as Chief Maritime Officer
Hornblower Group, recognized as a leader in maritime hospitality and transportation, has taken a significant step forward by appointing Shull Autin as its Chief Maritime Officer. With over 30 years of diverse experience in the maritime sector, Autin's extensive background includes expertise in marine logistics, safety management, and environmental compliance, positioning him perfectly to steer Hornblower through its next phase of growth.
In his new role, Autin will oversee various maritime operations, deepening the company's commitment to safety and regulatory compliance while ensuring exceptional customer experiences. His leadership will be vital as the company advances strategic initiatives that optimize fleet performance and strengthens key partnerships aligned with Hornblower's vision for sustainable growth.
CEO Mike Flaskey expressed excitement over Autin's appointment, stating, "His deep operational knowledge, global perspective, and proven track record in leading complex maritime organizations make him the ideal person to guide our maritime strategy forward." This sentiment highlights the expectations set for Autin as he transitions from his role as a consultant at Magnolia Logistics Services, where he provided strategic advice to clients in the oil and liquefied natural gas sectors. In this consulting capacity, he played a pivotal role in developing regulations-compliant offshore export facilities and enhancing marine safety protocols.
Before his tenure at Magnolia, Autin was the Senior Vice President at New Fortress Energy. There, he managed LNG fleets across multiple continents and implemented international safety standards that significantly improved fleet reliability. His leadership has garnered a reputation for prioritizing safety while optimizing operational efficiency, a foundation he plans to build upon at Hornblower.
Furthermore, Autin has previously served as President and CEO of ODYSSEA Marine, where he successfully propelled the company’s growth trajectory by expanding operational capacities and securing major service contracts in the oil and gas sector. This wealth of experience equips him with the unique insights necessary to navigate the complexities of maritime operations on a global scale.
"I’m honored to join Hornblower Group at such a pivotal time in its growth," Autin remarked. He recognizes the strong maritime roots of the company and the ambitious vision it holds for the future. His focus will not only be on preserving the brand’s legacy but also on driving innovation and excellence across Hornblower’s fleet and operations.
Hornblower Group itself boasts a rich history of over 100 years in maritime experiences. Its portfolio includes various offerings from water-based dining and sightseeing cruises to land-based tours and transportation services. The company operates in more than 10 countries, with a substantial presence in over 50 U.S. cities, catering to more than 20 million guests annually. Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Hornblower's operations are supported by offices in cities like San Francisco, Boston, and Chicago, as well as across the UK and Canada.
With Autin at the helm of maritime operations, Hornblower is poised to further its legacy in the maritime sector while ensuring compliance and safety remain at the forefront of its objectives. The appointment reflects Hornblower's commitment to enhancing its operations and confirms Autin's significant role in shaping the company's future strategy and vision. As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the leadership of individuals like Shull Autin will undoubtedly play a crucial role in navigating these changes and driving sustained growth for Hornblower Group.