Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial’s board of trustees recently named South Jersey native and longtime Battleship trustee and supporter Marshall Spevak as the ship’s permanent CEO, effective immediately.
Spevak comes to the role after eight years as a trustee and five months as the interim CEO.
“I knew that taking the reins during the dry dock process would be a challenge, but it has truly been the honor of a lifetime,” Spevak said. “I love the job, the team and the Battleship, and I’m so proud to have been a part of her restoration project to ensure others can also discover their love for her. I am thrilled to continue overseeing this historic gem and maintaining her incredible legacy as a landmark and naval icon.”
As CEO of Battleship New Jersey, Spevak oversees operations of the Battleship Museum & Memorial and — importantly — is currently leading the Battleship’s $10 million historic dry dock project. While in dry dock, crews perform critical maintenance work on the ship’s hull to ensure she remains afloat for decades to come.
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“Marshall has proven to be a dedicated and motivated leader throughout his years on the board and in the interim CEO role. He cares deeply about the Battleship and preserving her history,” board of trustees Chair Lisa Conte said. “There’s no one better for the job.”
Spevak said that, as CEO, he is focused on expanding the Battleship’s reach through her educational programs, continue growing the Battleship’s online presence and serving as a good steward to the Camden-area community.
“The work does not end with the dry dock; we will continue to fundraise and work with state and local officials to preserve this national treasure and ensure she is here to educate future generations,” Spevak continued.
Prior to serving as the Battleship’s CEO, Spevak served as a partner at the Advocacy & Management Group, one of Trenton’s premier government relations and communications firms. Before that, he served in several governmental and political roles throughout his career. He has been a member of the Battleship’s board of trustees since 2016 and served as chairman from 2020 through 2023.