PADI Appoints New Vice President at PADI Europe, Middle East and Africa

Jean Claude Monachon has a long track record with PADI. Over a period of more than 22 years, he has given PADI a face in the Europe region. He also played an important role in the founding of PADI Europe, Middle East & Africa. He has now decided to retire soon as Vice President, Sales, Field Services, Marketing and Business Development. His contribution to PADI and to the dive industry has been significant. Although he will step down from his full-time role at PADI, we expect to continue a positive relationship with Jean Claude and rely on his expertise in certain situations. His colleagues at PADI and in the industry wish him every success in the future.

Mark Spiers, a well known and experienced PADI Course Director with extensive experience on the European, Asian and Global diving scene. Mark is currently Director, Sales and Field Services at PADI Asia Pacific. A former owner of successful dive centers in both Europe and Thailand, he joined PADI Asia Pacific in 2006 as a regional manager. He subsequently held the position of Manager, Sales and Field Services, and was appointed Director of the Department in 2010. Mark has shown himself to be an excellent regional manager and has built an excellent sales team. He has built close and professional relationships with key PADI partners and members. Mark will begin his new role as Vice President, Sales, Field Services, Marketing and Business Development at PADI Europe, Middle East & Africa in early January 2014 and will be based in Bristol, UK.

Mark Spiers will join the PADI EMEA Executive Team along with Mark Caney, Vice President, Training and Customer Services, and Neil Fishburne, Vice President, Finance and Operations. Drew Richardson, President and CEO, PADI Worldwide, said: “While we are sorry that Jean Claude is going to do other things, we are delighted that Mark is joining PADI EMEA. The talents he will bring to the team will be of great value to our members. This will allow us to continue to provide members with the most effective and powerful support and marketing in the industry.”