FOUNDERS
Stefan Johansson is the founder and CEO of Windward Marina Group. Over the past 30 years, Mr. Johansson has gained extensive experience in the maritime industry. Mr. Johansson was a Founding Principal of Prime Marina Group with 5 marinas spanning from Miami to Cape Cod. Prior to founding Prime Marina group, Mr. Johansson Built more than 1,000 slips in Northern Europe, along with Marina Cottage rentals and best-in-class marina facilities in 3 separate locations. In 1982 Mr. Johansson founded Sunhouse Construction and grew it into one of the most dynamic commercial contractors in South Florida, generating in excess of $500 million of revenue. Using Sunhouse as a platform for growth, he acquired, developed, managed and owned over 20 million SF of commercial real estate, specifically in the Retail, Hospitality and Multifamily sectors.
After acquiring the St. Augustine Marine center in 2018, the Marine Center has quickly become one of the most respected and trusted service and refit facilities in NE Florida.
St Augustine marine center also paved the way for two additional acquisitions in Florida by acquiring the St Augustine Shipyard across the river, and Beach Marine in Jacksonville Beach.
Mr. Johansson grew up sailing on the west coast of Sweden, then moved to the US in 1979 to further his education. Mr. Johansson holds a bachelor’s degree in Business and a master’s degree in Finance from the University of Miami.
As a 5th generation boat builder, ship’s captain and marina operator, stemming from Captain Johansson in 1882 Stefan’s great, great Grandfather, one could agree that yachting, marinas and boatbuilding is part of his DNA. He is very proud to continue the family’s legacy and passion for the maritime Industry.
Robert Finvarb
Robert Finvarb founded Robert Finvarb Companies (RFC) in 2003. Under Robert’s leadership, RFC has become an industry leader in developing, owning, and operating mixed-use hotel projects throughout the United States.
RFC has developed projects with over $1.2bn of market value, containing over 3,000 hotel rooms and over 250,000 square feet of retail space throughout the U.S. The company’s projects have been recognized for excellence by several organizations and municipalities, including the American Lodging Investment Summit (best hotel project in 2017), Marriott International (Outstanding Contribution), and the City of Miami Beach. Robert is also a founding principal of Windward Marina Group, which has service, storage, and marine sales facilities throughout the State of Florida.
In addition to his business pursuits, Robert’s philanthropic involvement includes being a Founder of Mount Sinai Hospital in Miami Beach, a Diamond Society Member of the Miami Children’s Hospital, and a member of the Board of Trustees of Miami Country Day School. Robert graduated from the Fisher School of Accounting of the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting in 1990, and he received his Juris Doctor degree from Georgetown University Law Center in 1993.
Thomas Wood
Thomas D. Wood, Jr. founded Thomas D. Wood and Company in 1987 with his father, Thomas D. Wood Sr. Thomas D. Wood Jr., is the President of Thomas D. Wood and Company where he oversees all aspects of loan production, loan servicing, correspondent relationships, and management. Mr. Wood has secured over 4 billion dollars in loan closings and continues to actively originate and structure commercial transactions throughout the State of Florida as well as across the country. In 2005 Mr. Wood and his partners purchased Colliers International South Florida where Mr. Wood served as the Chief Operating Officer. The company was sold to Avison and Young in 2015.
Mr. Wood has served on the MBA Commercial Board of Governors (COMBOG) since 2016 and has been a member of the Mortgage Bankers Association since 1988. Additionally, he is involved in many civic and local organizations. Mr. Wood served as President of the Orange Bowl Committee in 2007 – 2008 and has been a member of the committee since 1995. Since 2014, he has served on the board for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami.
Mr. Wood graduated from Clemson University in 1983 with a Bachelor of Science in Administrative Management. In 1984, he earned his Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Finance from Florida International University.
EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT
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Matthew JuallCOO – Chief Operating Officer
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Christopher SimonCFO – Chief Financial Officer
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Guo Fu LiCAO – Chief Accounting Officer
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Brooke BarracloughDirector of Operations
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Kora JonesDirector of Marketing
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Jeanie FungSenior Accountant
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Marvin SotoProject Controller
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Ali TharooAccountant
Matthew Juall
Matt leads the Windward Marinas operations business. Matt has over 20 years of real estate finance and leadership experience, most recently having worked in acquisitions and development for Port 32 Marinas, Grove Point Marinas, Integra Marinas, and Marina Development Partners. Prior to his active involvement in the marina business, Matt was SVP of finance and asset management for Turnberry Associates, a Florida private real estate company. Prior to this Matt was an Executive Director with JPMorgan managing the real estate banking origination business within the state of Florida. Before JPMorgan, he was a senior executive with Bank of America originating over $1 billion in loans for REITS, regional development firms and CMBS clients. Matt is a member of the ULI, AMI and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Mr. Juall holds a Master of Real Estate from Johns Hopkins University, a Master of Accounting from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a marketing degree from Jacksonville University.
Christopher Simon
Christopher Simon is the Chief Financial Officer of Winward Marina Group. He joined us from the Robert Finvarb Companies where he also serves as Vice President of Portfolio Asset Management. When first joining Robert Finvarb Companies, as an Analyst, his primary focus was on the analysis of overall hotel performance, investor relations and preparing internal financial reports. In 2015, Christopher was promoted to the Director of Asset Manager. As Director, along with his previous duties, he worked closely with all hotel leaders and focuses on the implementation of specific revenue and sales strategies to further drive top-line performance for all properties. In addition to his active role in the revenue generation of the hotel portfolio, Christopher is responsible for the project management and scheduling of over $12MM in renovation projects. During this time Christopher utilizes his construction knowledge with his revenue expertise to ensure that all properties, undergoing significant renovations, still meet the desired returns to investors. Christopher is also involved with the selection, negotiation, and evaluation of leases for the Finvarb Retail Portfolio, which consists of over 30,000 SF of commercial space. Christopher is a graduate from Barry University with an M.B.A specializing in Finance.
Guo Fu Li
Guo Fu Li is the Controller of Windward Marina Group and joined the Company in August 2019. He joined us from the Robert Finvarb Companies where he also serves as Controller. Guo Fu received his Bachelor of Accounting at the University of Central Florida. He has spent over 12 years combined in both public and private accounting, providing his extensive working experience in a broad cross-section of industries. Guo Fu started his career in the assurance and advisory services department of HLB Gravier, LLP, a local accounting firm in Coral Gables, FL. There he led engagements for real estate, manufacturing and distribution, and governmental and not-for-profit entities. Most recently, Guo Fu worked with Vertical Bridge, the largest privately-owned communications tower owner and operator in the country, where he oversaw the accounting operations and financial reporting.
Brooke Barraclough
Brooke Barraclough has navigated her career through the maritime industry, stemming from a childhood passion for sailing. Beginning her journey in 2020 with Windward as a receptionist at the St. Augustine Marine Center, Brooke quickly showcased her operational prowess. By 2021, she was successfully managing an outboard service shop, illustrating her capability and dedication.
Recognized for her leadership potential, Brooke advanced to the role of executive secretary in early 2022. By mid-2024, she ascended to the position of Director of Operations, spearheading strategic initiatives and ensuring operational excellence at Windward. Brooke plays a crucial role in the company’s expansion efforts, overseeing acquisitions, marketing strategies, and the implementation of administrative systems aimed at propelling growth.
Alongside her professional endeavors, Brooke is pursuing a B.S. in Business Administration, underscoring her commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Kora Jones
Kora Jones, born and raised in Northeast Florida, is passionate about life on the water. August of 2021, she started with Windward Marina Group as a Graphic Designer & Marketing Manager. As a graduate of Florida School of the Arts, she earned her Graphic Design degree and minored in Contemporary Art, Photography, and other Fine Art programs.
With Windward, her areas of focus are illustration, graphic design, lettering, content creation, and engagement data analysis. Kora manages and designs all digital and graphic content with Windward Marina Group including advertising and promotional exhibits. Furthermore, she has designed and co-created the revamped website for Windward. Kora also maintains an integral role as a member of the Acquisitions team, assisting in transitioning new marinas to the Windward Lifestyle.
Jeanie Fung
Jeanie started working at Robert Finvarb Companies in April 2023 as a Senior Accountant within the Windward Marina Group division.
Jeanie received her bachelor’s degree in Brazil (PUCC – Catholic University in Campinas – SP – Brazil). Jeanie has 20 years of experience working for public companies such as Hewlett Packard, Itautec – Itausa Group, and Brinks. Jeanie worked in various positions overseeing Balance Sheet reconciliations and managing payables and receivables.
Marvin Soto
Marvin Soto joined the Robert Finvarb Companies in January 2022 as a Project Manager. Marvin received his Bachelor of Economics at National University of Nicaragua and went on to receive a Postgraduate Certificate at the Central America Institute for Business Administration. He has spent most of his career working in private industries. Prior to joining Windward Marina Group, Marvin has spent most of his career in the hospitality industry in various accounting positions. He was responsible for the overseeing balance sheet reconciliations and managing the Accounts Payables and Accounts Receivables staff of the Accounting Department.
Ali Tharoo
Ali Tharoo received his Bachelor of Accounting at the University of Central Florida. He joined Windward Marina Group as a Staff Accountant in May 2021. Ali started his career in accounting with Exam Plus FL Corp where he was responsible for overseeing the Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable, along with end-of-month closing.
Prior to coming to Windward Marina Group, Ali worked for Holiday Retirement, one of the largest companies in the independent senior living industry with over two-hundred and forty communities around the United States. He was part of the Accounting Shared Services department and was responsible for the daily accounting tasks for over ninety communities. He was also responsible for overseeing the daily cash reporting for all two hundred and forty communities, along with conducting internal audits of all their resident leases.
Regional Managers
Travis Staats
Travis Staats joined the Camachee Island staff as a dockhand in 2005 after graduating from Flagler College with a bachelor’s degree in Sports Management. In 2015, Travis was promoted to Real Estate Manager where he managed 13 commercial tenants, a drinking water treatment plant, and all infrastructure needs for Camachee Island. In 2017, Travis was promoted to Marina Manager where he took responsibility for all marina and facility operations. Travis gained his Certified Marina Operators distinction in February of 2021 from the International Marina Institute and currently serves on the board of directors for the North Florida Marine Association.
Lisa Brousseau
Lisa Brousseau has grown up in the Marine Industry, daughter of the previous owner of Beach Marine. Her experience has led to an intimate knowledge of marina operations. Through her time at Beach Marine, Lisa has handled contracts, accounts payable, accounts receivable, boat sales, service, ship store & marina management.
Lisa is currently General Manager Windward Jacksonville Beach; she is married to Craig Brousseau and has a son Christian.
Marina General Managers
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Richard BraunbergSt. Augustine Shipyard
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Jamie SmithAmelia Island Marina
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Brooks BuseySadler Point Marina
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Lisa BrousseauWindward Beach Marine
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Travis StaatsCamachee Cove Yacht Harbor
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Wade SimmonsSebastian Inlet & Taylor Creek Marina
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Sandy KasprzakStump Pass Marina
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Paulette TeagleAlligator Point Marina
Richard Braunberg
Richard began his journey in the marine industry in 2012, starting as a dockhand at a small marina in Jacksonville. Quickly mastering the lift and discovering his knack for optimizing dry storage space, he made a noticeable impact. By 2018, Richard had advanced to St. Augustine Shipyard as a lift operator, where he continued honing his skills in a more dynamic environment.
After Windward acquired St. Augustine Shipyard in 2019, Richard leveraged his talents and work ethic to aid the company’s growth. His background in dry storage optimization led him to Amelia Island Marina in 2021, where he served as Operations Manager and Dry Storage Analyst.
Returning to the Shipyard, which he considers his professional home, Richard is now dedicated to achieving his ultimate goal as General Manager of St. Augustine Shipyard. He aims to channel his dedication and experience into ensuring the facility remains a premier dry storage marina in Northeast Florida.
Jamie Smith
Jamie brings 21 years of experience in the marine industry. After graduating college with a double major in business and marketing he moved to the Outer Banks of NC to work for Buddy Davis building custom sport fishing boats. After that he worked for several custom boat builders honing his skills in all aspects of boat building. Jamie worked as a yacht broker in south Florida and then moved on to start a successful boat dealership in Jacksonville. He partnered to purchase Amelia Island Marina as owner operator for several years. Now as General Manager of Amelia Island Marina for Windward, he will strive to continue to offer a world class marina and boating experience to all current and future customers.
Brooks Busey
Brooks Busey’s upbringing along the St. Johns River shaped his early years, where he gained practical experience working in local marinas and boatyards during his summers. Following his graduation from Stetson University with a business degree in 1999, he embarked on a full-time career in the marine industry. In 2001, Brooks acquired Sadler Point Marina, where he dedicated over two decades to enhancing its service operations. In 2022, Brooks joined the Windward team, merging Sadler Point Marina with neighboring marina, Ortega River Marina. This led to expanding the combined operations to encompass 176 slips and incorporating Sadler’s established service business. Brooks is a former board member of the St. Johns Riverkeeper, The Florida Yacht Club and The Jacksonville Commodores League.
Lisa Brousseau
Lisa Brousseau has grown up in the Marine Industry, daughter of the previous owner of Beach Marine. Her experience has led to an intimate knowledge of marina operations. Through her time at Beach Marine, Lisa has handled contracts, accounts payable, accounts receivable, boat sales, service, ship store & marina management.
Lisa is currently General Manager Windward Jacksonville Beach; she is married to Craig Brousseau and has a son Christian.
Travis Staats
Travis Staats joined the Camachee Island staff as a dockhand in 2005 after graduating from Flagler College with a bachelor’s degree in Sports Management. In 2015, Travis was promoted to Real Estate Manager where he managed 13 commercial tenants, a drinking water treatment plant, and all infrastructure needs for Camachee Island. In 2017, Travis was promoted to Marina Manager where he took responsibility for all marina and facility operations. Travis gained his Certified Marina Operators distinction in February of 2021 from the International Marina Institute and currently serves on the board of directors for the North Florida Marine Association.
Wade Simmons
Sandy Kasprzak
Born and raised in New Jersey, Sandy has been boating & fishing off the shores of Cape May and Fortescue with her dad since she was old enough to walk. She was a bookkeeper for her husband’s construction company for 20 years, at the same time she worked as an accounting clerk for the local school district and served as the schools’ treasurer.
She moved to Florida in October of 2019 and was employed by Stump Pass Marina that year. Beginning as accounts payable and quickly moved into the Service writing and managing the dry storage department. In 2021 she was promoted to Manager. With the acquisition of Stump Pass in November 2022, Sandy was promoted to General Manager of Stump Pass Marina for Windward Marina Group.
Paulette Teagle
Paulette Teagle joined the Windward Team in the spring of 2020, starting as a receptionist at Amelia Island Marina and quickly advancing to Parts and Service Coordinator by summer. In December 2022, she was promoted to General Manager at Alligator Point Marina. Paulette holds Marine Pipefitting Certification from Tidewater Community College, earned in 1985. She has also completed Yamaha Marine Business Certifications and brings over a decade of experience in inventory control from her time in the grocery sector.
Restaurant Group
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Mark PoorCOO of Restaurant Group
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Robert GarverExecutive Vice President of Windward Restaurant Group
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Bob GreenleafThe Lighthouse Bar & Grill General Manager
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Sarah GoodBoondocks Restaurant General Manager
Mark Poor
Bio coming soon
Robert Garver
Robert Garver is an experienced restaurant professional with over 15 years in high-volume service and operations, starting as Director of Restaurant Operations at Windward Marina Group, where he focused on delivering exceptional customer experiences. Now serving as Executive Vice President of Windward Restaurant Group, Rob is dedicated to expanding the brand through the acquisition, development, and management of Sunset Tiki Restaurant/Bars along Florida’s coast. He holds a master’s degree in Homeland Security and Counterterrorism and shares his life with his wife Carly and their two young children, Robert Jr. and Fisher Marie.
Bob Greenleaf
Bob Greenleaf has over 30 years of Restaurant experience. After graduating from UNH with a bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management Bob and his father bought their first Restaurant which later grew into two locations and a catering operation. Bob was also active in the New Hampshire Restaurant and Lodging Association and is a past President of that organization. After 25 years the business was sold, and Bob and his family moved to Florida. Bob has been with the Lighthouse Grill since May of 2021 serving as their General Manager. The Lighthouse Grill has a long and rich history in Englewood and is known for its amazing sunsets, great food, and lively atmosphere. Bob and his wife Sandra have two kids and 3 grandkids.
Sarah Good
Sarah Good, a Florida native, boasts over 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry. She has diligently progressed through all positions within both front-of-house and back-of-house operations, ultimately attaining the role of General Manager at Boondocks Restaurant. Sarah’s unwavering dedication is evident in her passion for creating exceptional dining experiences for patrons and fostering positive work environments for her team. Her journey is a testament to her hard work, determination, and commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry.
Construction & Development
Stephen Clifford
Stephen Clifford is a lifelong resident of St. Augustine, Florida, whose career in marine construction began in high school, driven by his enduring love for the water spanning two decades. Joining Windward Marina Group in 2020 as a carpenter and shipwright, Stephen sought a change from his previous ten years in residential and commercial construction. Since joining the team, he has transitioned from boat building to overseeing dredging projects at multiple marinas. Recently promoted to Director of Project Management, Stephen now manages daily operations across our diverse portfolio of improvement and construction projects. Outside of work, Stephen is dedicated to raising his children with his wife, Charli.
Karl Masters
Karl Masters joined the Windward Marina Group with over 20 years of construction, permitting, and design experience. Starting out in residential home construction and commercial builds, Karl has continued his growth within the industry, more recently with a primary focus on civil engineering design. Previously working as a project manager for a northeast Florida engineering firm, Karl has worked on a wide-ranging variety of projects including small and large commercial, municipal/capital improvement projects, residential subdivisions, infrastructure assessments, marine construction, and large-scale industrial projects. He also has developed expertise in permitting with local, state, and federal agencies and managing every aspect of projects, professional relationships, and teams to ensure projects meet deadlines, budget requirements, and high-quality design standards.
Karl joined the Windward Marina Group as a Senior Project Manager to assist in all construction related areas including existing property/infrastructure improvements, as well as current and future developmental projects. He is a graduate of Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering