Colonna’s Shipyard Welcomes New CFO Brian Waterfield
Colonna’s Shipyard, based in Norfolk, has appointed Brian Waterfield as its new chief financial officer, effective immediately. Waterfield takes over from Rebecca Wieters, who has served in the role since 2017 and will depart the company in early May. The transition comes as Colonna’s continues to strengthen its financial strategy and operations.
Leadership Transition at Colonna’s Shipyard
Brian Waterfield officially began his role as CFO on Monday, succeeding Rebecca Wieters, who has been a key figure in the company’s financial management for several years. Wieters, who also holds the title of vice president, has made significant contributions to Colonna’s during her tenure. In an email, spokesperson Ashley Wisniewski expressed gratitude for Wieters’ dedication and wished her well in her future endeavors.
Waterfield brings over nine years of experience from Binder Dijker Otte (BDO), where he served as an assurance director in the Norfolk office. His expertise spans various sectors, including government contracting, nonprofit organizations, and construction. At BDO, he led audit teams and provided strategic advice to executives and boards on financial analysis and internal controls. This background positions him well to oversee Colonna’s accounting functions and enhance the company’s financial strategy.
Randall Crutchfield, Chairman and CEO of Colonna’s Shipyard, expressed enthusiasm about Waterfield’s appointment, highlighting his financial assurance background and experience in government contracting as valuable assets for the company. “We’re excited to welcome him to the team,” Crutchfield stated.
Waterfield’s Background and Community Involvement
A native of Hampton Roads, Waterfield has worked with a diverse range of clients, from nonprofits to multinational corporations. His community engagement includes serving on the finance committee of the Elizabeth River Trail Foundation and as a board member of Junior Achievement of Greater Hampton Roads. Waterfield holds a master’s degree in accounting and a bachelor’s degree in finance from William & Mary. He is also a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants.
Founded in 1875, Colonna’s Shipyard is the oldest continuously operating private shipyard in the United States. The company specializes in ship repair, marine and industrial machining, and steel fabrication, employing over 700 people. With three dry docks and a 1,000-metric-ton travel lift, Colonna’s has expanded its operations to San Diego and Kentucky, with a fourth dry dock currently under construction, expected to be operational by 2028.
