Soundings Trade Only magazine named Jeff Moser as editor-in-chief. Moser replaces Michael Verdon, who is leaving to take another position in the industry.

Moser was most recently executive editor at Power & Motoryacht, a sister magazine to Soundings Trade Only. He will take over as chief editor of Soundings Trade Only at the Progressive Miami International Boat Show, which opens Feb. 13.

“In a short period of time, Michael was able to raise the bar at Soundings Trade Only,” said Gary DeSanctis, president of Active Interest Media’s Marine Group. “Having worked with Jeff Moser, I’m certain his passion for boating and knowledge of the industry will lift STO to new heights.”

“In this rapidly changing media landscape, I believe Jeff Moser will continue to move Trade Only forward,” said Bill Sisson, editorial director of the Marine Group. “I anticipate you’ll see some exciting new initiatives introduced under the brand. I really enjoyed working with Michael, and we’ll all miss his experience and insight as a veteran marine journalist.”

“I’m thrilled to expand my role with AIM, the most respected media brand in the marine space,” Moser said. “At Trade Only, I look forward to continuing our dynamic multimedia coverage of the people, brands, innovative products and technology that drive the industry.”

During Verdon’s tenure, Trade Only underwent a redesign, which gave the brand a new look and feel. Changes included new cover designs, single-themed issues and stronger international coverage. The June 2019 40th anniversary issue was the biggest in the magazine’s history.

The Trade Only team also launched an annual Innovation Awards competition; livestream interviews from IBEX, Metstrade and Dealer Week; and roundtable discussions and a 40th anniversary gala.

“I feel like we’re leaving the Soundings Trade Only brand in a strong place,” Verdon said. “Jeff’s a proven editor with fresh ideas and has the advantage of knowing many top boatbuilders. I’m sure he’ll build on what we’ve accomplished in the last two years.”