Ashley Gist Named 2025 “Women Making Waves” Recipient by Boating Industry
Holland, Mich. – June 18, 2025 – Tiara Yachts, a family-owned manufacturer of American-made luxury watercrafts, today announced that Controller Ashley Gist has been named a 2025 Boating Industry Women Making Waves recipient.
A dedicated member of the Tiara team for ten years, Ashley has played a critical role in strengthening the company’s financial practices and cross-functional operations. Ashley began her career with Tiara as an Assistant Controller in 2015 and quickly rose to leadership as Controller following the divesture of Pursuit in 2018. Her leadership has driven not only internal success, but also helped shape standards within the broader marine manufacturing industry.
“My most memorable achievement is when I stepped into the Controller leadership role during Tiara’s sale of Pursuit,” said Ashley. “This was the biggest challenge I faced during my career, driving immense personal growth. Adaptability and resilience were key during this change and continue to be a key part of my current role as Controller.
Ashley also led Tiara through its first-ever financial statement audit, a complex and high-stakes process for any privately held business. Under her leadership, the company has now completed five consecutive audits with zero material findings, an extraordinary feat that reflects her rigorous planning and commitment to organizational integrity. Ashley also oversees Tiara’s R&D tax credit documentation process, a responsibility that results in significant financial return each year. Her efforts are invaluable in ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of Tiara Yachts.
“Ashley approaches every challenge with focus, thoughtfulness and a steady hand,” said Tom Slikkers, CEO of Tiara Yachts. “Her influence is seen in nearly every department of our organization, and her leadership has brought discipline and clarity to the most complex financial processes. She consistently goes above and beyond to support her team and uplift the next generation of young women working towards careers in industries where they remain underrepresented.”
Ashley’s path to leadership is marked by perseverance. A single mother, Ashley has navigated significant personal and professional hurdles on her path to leadership. Despite challenges, Ashley is known for her steadfast wisdom and collaborative leadership style. She leads with data, empathy and respect to drive results. She is a trusted voice across her teams, someone who colleagues turn to for guidance, clarity and mentorship.
“As a single mother, navigating a career is difficult in any industry, and the marine industry is no exception,” said Ashley. “I hope to inspire other women in the marine industry by leading with authenticity and resilience. Success doesn’t require conforming to outdated expectations; it comes from embracing your own strengths as you grow."
The Women Making Waves awards celebrate women whose efforts continue to propel the marine industry through leadership, innovation and mentorship. Tiara Yachts’ Director of IT, Michelle Seneca, received the recognition in 2024, preceded by Tiara Yachts’ Quality Manager Fawn Filley-Myers in 2023.
The full list of 2025 recipients can be viewed on Boating Industry’s website and within the latest print issue. To learn more about Tiara Yachts, please visit tiarayachts.com.