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Jouko Huju mourned by industry
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The Finn held influential roles at ICOMIA, Finnboat, EBI, IMCI, GMBA and IFBSO, where he was Managing Director at the time of his passing.
Jouko Huju; Photo c/o Confindustria Nautica
The marine industry has paid tribute to Jouko Huju, who passed away on January 21, 2025, following a brief illness. The Finn is survived by his wife Leija and two daughters.
Huju, who held both an MBA and a Doctorate in Business Administration, had a remarkable career that began in 1978 and centred on the marine industry from 1996, including leadership roles at ICOMIA, Finnboat, IFBSO and GMBA.
From 1996-2017, Huju spent 21 years as both a Board Member of IMCI (International Marine Certification Institute) and CEO of Finnboat, Finland’s marine industry association, where he subsequently spent two years as Chairman. Huju was an Honorary Member of both IMCI and Finnboat.
He was a Board Member of ICOMIA (International Council of Marine Industry Associations) from 2002-18, serving two-year terms as President from 2004-06 and 2016-18. Huju also played an active role in the creation of the European Boating Industry (EBI) federation in 2009, serving as a Council Member for its first two years.
At the time of his passing, Huju was Managing Director of IFBSO (International Federation of Boat Show Organisers), having previously been a consultant then transition manager.
Founded in 1964, the organisation stated that ‘IFBSO 2.0’ was fully operational under Jouko’s leadership by METSTRADE in November 2024, with his efforts leading to a new operational structure and legal entity, “an agile member information system and a dynamic framework of working groups and work packages”.
An IFBSO statement read: “Jouko had an extensive and impactful career in the leisure marine industry, including his leadership roles at Finnboat and ICOMIA, before playing a pivotal role in the reorganisation of IFBSO.
“The loss of Jouko is a devastating blow to IFBSO. He was a dear friend, a kind-hearted visionary, and someone whose presence left a lasting impact in a remarkably short yet intense period. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, friends and loved ones. He will be profoundly missed.”
In 2019, Huju founded Global Marine Business Advisors (GMBA) and was COO of the network of independent marine industry consultants.
US-based Thom Dammrich, a lifelong friend and GMBA colleague, said: “As I reflect on the remarkable journey we shared over the years, my heart is heavy with the loss of my dear friend and colleague Jouko Huju. Jouko was not just a leader in the marine industry; he was a guiding light and a source of inspiration for all of us fortunate enough to work alongside him.
“His passion for the boating sector was unparalleled, and his unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable practices and fostering collaboration transformed not just businesses but organisations. Jouko had an extraordinary ability to connect people, to see potential where others saw challenges, and to ignite a shared vision for a brighter future in the marine industry.
“Beyond his professional achievements, Jouko was a true friend. He had a way of making everyone feel valued and heard, always taking the time to listen and offer support. His kindness, wisdom and infectious enthusiasm for life will be deeply missed.
“As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the legacy he leaves behind – a legacy of mentorship, collaboration, and an unyielding belief in the power of community. Thank you, Jouko, for everything. Your impact will be felt for years to come, and you will always be remembered with great affection and respect.”
