Maine Maritime Academy > Alumni > Awards and Recognition > Wall of Honor > Gerald W. ‘Jay’ Harris, Jr. ’73

Gerald W. ‘Jay’ Harris, Jr. '73

Gerald W. ‘Jay’ Harris, Jr. ’73 picture

Gerald W. ‘Jay’ Harris, Jr. ’73

President | Komar Distribution Services | Chief Operating Officer | Komar Brands

Education:

  • B.S., Maine Maritime Academy, Nautical Science, 1973

Career Highlights:

  • Komar Brands (since 1983)
    • President of Komar Distribution Services
    • Chief Operating Officer
      • propelled the company from $20 million to a billion-dollar powerhouse
  • North Sails (1973 – 1982)

Distinguished Service:

  • pivotal roles at North Sails and Komar Brands, where he drove both companies to a commanding 60% market share.
  • S. patents:
    • US4383492A– 1983-05-17, Furling sail with protective panels
    • US7445227B2 – 2008-11-04, Ski with improved edging characteristics
  • sailing achievements include securing a collegiate championship victory, achieving multiple world ocean racing podium finishes, notably earning the esteemed Cygnet Cup from the New York Yacht Club, and playing a role within Dennis Connor’s America’s Cup team.
  • pioneered North University’s sail courses, empowering countless sailors globally.
  • orchestrating operational excellence and championing technological advancement
  • speaking engagements with students and faculty at Maine Maritime Academy