Ben Dinsmore

About Ben Dinsmore

Seasoned maritime leader and MBA-qualified Master Mariner with over 25 years of leadership spanning vessel operations, ship building, offshore energy construction, and marine assurance. I bring operational expertise, financial acumen, and a strategic mindset to complex maritime systems. As former president of a marine manufacturing firm and U.S. lead for marine operations and vessel assurance, I’ve directed multi-million-dollar projects, optimized fleet performance, and led diverse teams. Passionate about workforce development, safety standards, and sustaining coastal resilience, I’m committed to shaping the future of maritime infrastructure and public service with integrity and vision. BSc in Marine Transportation (Maine Maritime Academy), MBA (University of Massachusetts, Amherst).Marine Operations | Offshore Construction | Vessel Auditing & Assurance | Port OperationsLeadership & Team Management | Health & Safety Management | Policy & GovernanceOffshore Oil and Gas | Renewable Energy | Offshore Wind | Master Mariner

Experience

1. General Manager & CEO

   Casco Bay Island Transit District

   Sep 2025 — Present · Portland, ME, US

   I’m honored to step into the role of General Manager at Casco Bay Lines, serving as CEO of Maine’s iconic public ferry system. This organization plays a vital role in connecting the island communities of Casco Bay to the mainland, ensuring access, safety, and continuity for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.As I begin this journey, I’m energized by the scope and significance of the work ahead. From overseeing daily operations and seasonal scaling to guiding long-range capital planning and infrastructure upgrades, I’m committed to stewarding this essential service with clarity, integrity, and purpose.I’ll be working closely with a dedicated team of mariners, shoreside staff, and managers, building a resilient, safety-conscious culture that reflects the pride and professionalism of those who keep our vessels moving year-round. I’m also looking forward to deepening relationships with island residents, city and state partners, labor unions, and our Board of Directors helping to ensure transparency, trust, and shared vision across all levels of engagement.Casco Bay Lines is more than a transportation provider; it’s a lifeline, a public commitment, and a symbol of Maine’s maritime heritage. I’m excited to lead with both strategic focus and human-centered leadership as we navigate operational complexity, embrace change, and plan for a sustainable future.

Education

• University of Massachusetts at Amherst - Isenberg School of Management

  Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.)

  2010 — 2012

• Maine Maritime Academy

  BS

  1995 — 1999

• University of Massachusetts Amherst

  Offshore Wind Professional Certificate

  2022 — 2023

Skills

• Ism
• Industrial Safety
• Energy
• Oil/Gas
• Leadership
• Sailing
• Petroleum Engineering
• Boating
• Iso 14001
• Iso
• Performance Management
• Internal Audit
• Quality Management
• Technical Writing
• Quality Auditing
• Strategic Thinking
• Business Analysis
• Technical Presentations
• Market Research
• Marketing Strategy
• Market Analysis
• External Audit
• Marketing Communications
• Crisis Communications
• Company Management
• Strategic Communications
• Camping
• Debt Management
• Corporate Finance
• Quantitative Finance
• Statistics
• Safety
• Safety Management
• Performance Coaching
• Online Marketing
• Human Relations
• Personnel Development
• Strategic Analysis
• Web Design
• Blog Development