Key Personnel

David H. Akridge Jr. – President & General Manager
David was born and raised in Mobile AL, and enjoyed a life surrounded by salt water fishing, hunting and boats. In 1988, he graduated from LSU with a BS degree in mathematics, and received a commission as a United States Naval Officer, later serving as Weapons Officer aboard the USS Harlan County (LST 1196) at Little Creek VA. After serving almost 4 years, with deployments to the Persian Gulf and South America, he decided to pursue a career in the civilian world. David held several mid to senior level management positions with some of the top Fortune 500 companies in the country. Most recently, he served as General Manager  for the Tidewater Business Unit of Safety-Kleen Systems in Chesapeake VA. The company is the world leader in the environmental services business, generating over one billion in sales annually. He knows well how to treat customers. His business knowledge and extensive knowledge of the marine sales and service business are truly evident to his customers. David is accountable for the day to day operations of the business, including boat sales and service.

Neili Cole – Vice President, Admistrative Support
Neili is a native of Spartanburg SC, and attended Salem College in Winston Salem NC, where she received a BA degree in Communications. Neili moved to the Virginia Beach area in 2003, and has held several management positions with top companies such as Talbot’s and House Beautiful Magazine. Her extensive business knowledge, and her excellent administrative and organizational skills, provide a seamless link to our service and sales departments. Neili is accountable for the administrative and sales support side of the business.

Max King – Operations Manager
Born and raised in Creedmoor NC, Max spent twenty years in the Navy (after high school) as an Engineman. After retiring in 2006 as a Chief Petty Officer, Max began running Fishing Charters for Chesapeake Angler Magazine. He joined Virginia Beach Contender in July of 2008. Max contributes a wealth of expertise and knowledge to the marine parts and repair side of the business. With over twenty years experience in general marine repair and service, Max is also Yamaha Factory Trained. He has the experience, the knowledge, and the expertise to provide the best customer service possible. Max is accountable for service writing, parts sales, repair, and maintenance. Max is also accountable for Virginia Beach Contender Fishing Charters. As a well known VA Master Angler in the Tidewater Area, Max is also a two time winner of the Mid Atlantic Rock Fish Shootout - the largest annual fishing tournament on the East Coast. Whether you want to fish inshore or offshore , Max will put you on the fish.