Alan J. Freedman Memorial Leadership Award

Recipients of the NMMA Freedman Award are individuals who, in the course of their careers, have made outstanding contributions to the marine accessories industry through leadership, creativity, and personal motivation.  The following are the categories for consideration:
• Marine aftermarket or OEM manufacturer
• Marine representative
• Member of a marine-focused media
• Boat dealer
• Marine distributor
• Marine trade association staff person

NOMINATION PROCESS

Nominations to the 2025 awards program are open through December 6, 2024.

To nominate a worthy industry leader:

  • Nominators must belong to a member company and be in good standing with NMMA.
  • Submit the official nomination form.
  • Submit supporting material to enhance the nomination. Supporting material includes, but not limited to; an enhanced career timeline and accomplishments, articles about the nominee and letters of support. Supporting materials should be received digitally through the provided file share link by December 13, 2024.

Nominators will be notified of award status in January 2025.

AWARDS PRESENTATION

The 2025 Alan J. Freedman Award will be presented during the Miami Industry Breakfast at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Tickets are required for entry.

QUESTIONS

Contact: Rachel Harmon
Email: [email protected]

AWARD RECIPIENTS

View past recipients of this prestigious award.

2007: Bob Latham, Latham Marine, Inc.

Bob Latham

Bob Latham is one of the most innovative problem solvers in the marine industry. He single-handedly improved the safety of performance boats when he developed the first successful hydraulic steering system for offshore racing nearly 30 years ago. Since then his products have ensured that all performance boaters can run at higher speeds safely.

Under Bob’s leadership, Latham Marine has developed a full array of performance and safety enhancing products, including steering systems, drive spacers, trim tabs, water pickups and other accessories. These achievements are all the more remarkable because Mr. Latham designed and developed them on his own. He began repairing performance boats as a teenager and through his creativity and perseverance grew Latham Marine into the successful and widely respected company it is today.