The Diving Equipment & Marketing Association (DEMA) announces the election of DEMA Board Member and Retailer Jim Byrem of Ocean Concepts Scuba, Honolulu, Hawaii to President of the Board. The election fills the Presidential vacancy left by the departure of Al Hornsby from the Board of Directors at the conclusion this morning of the Association’s General Membership Meeting.
In addition to filling the President’s seat from among current Board members, a special election will take place in accordance with DEMA by-laws to fill the vacated Board seat. The election will take place following the trade show and after a nominating committee can be assembled and candidates sought. Once the election has taken place, the individual filling the seat will hold the Board position for a two year term.
First elected to the Board in 2006, Byrem is currently a Vice President of the board, and Chairman of the Legislative Committee. Byrem, in the industry for more than 15 years, owns four dive centers in Oahu and is one of two retailers on the Board representing the A4 Category.
“Jim brings an overall knowledge of the industry and a well-honed business expertise that can be of significant benefit to the membership during these challenging economic times,” stated Tom Ingram, Executive Director of DEMA. “His contributions were integral to the development of the retailer focused Be A Diver acquisition campaign and as Chair of the Legislative Committee, he brings expertise to one of the most critical areas the industry faces, in a time of increased government scrutiny and regulation. We appreciate his willingness to continue to serve the Association by taking on this new role,” concluded Ingram. (filed by Stephan Whelan)
