Ione Astondoa is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Astondoa, a renowned Spanish centenary shipyard. Born in 1993, Ione, at just 31 years old, oversees marketing, human resources, and cost management at the iconic shipyard. Astondoa, founded by her great-grandfather, Jesús Astondoa Martinez, in 1916, is now in its fourth generation with Ione at the helm. She is the first woman to join the yard’s board, marking a significant milestone in an industry traditionally dominated by men. Based in Alicante, Spain, Ione is fluent in Spanish, English, and German.
What was your field of study, and where did you pursue your education?
I studied Business at the University of Alicante in Spain and completed a master's in Digital Marketing at the University of Eindhoven in the Netherlands.
What was your field of study, and where did you pursue your education?
I studied Business at the University of Alicante in Spain and completed a master's in Digital Marketing at the University of Eindhoven in the Netherlands.
How did your career in yachting begin?
My career in yachting began at a young age, growing up in the Spanish shipyard where I spent much of my childhood alongside my grandfather. He instilled in me a deep passion for the sea and yachting. Thanks to my youth and the generational shift I've brought to Astondoa, I’ve been able to introduce innovations and new perspectives to the company—bringing a fresh outlook that has made a significant impact in a short amount of time.
Can you share a memorable experience or significant achievement in your yachting career?
One of the most memorable experiences in my yachting career was the launch campaign for our AS5 model. It was an incredible journey that showcased our brand’s legacy and innovation. The campaign was a great success, and I’m proud of the results. Here are links to several articles that tell the story of this achievement:
What current projects or goals are you focused on?
Currently, we are focused on expanding our sporty range with a new motorboat, which will be unveiled at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2024. As a shipyard, we are implementing sustainable measures to enhance the efficiency of our boats and reduce their environmental impact. Additionally, we have recently signed a distribution agreement with a dealer in the Middle East, marking a strategic step in expanding our markets beyond Europe and the USA.
Get in touch with Ione Astondoa
Website: http://www.astondoa.com
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