Brad Stephens joins Ullman Sails as Head of Technical Development

by John Olson on 15 May 2015 Ullman Sails announces that Brad Stephens, expert designer and key mind behind the development of the D4® sail membrane, has been named Head of Technical Development at Ullman Sails International, Inc., the licensing company of the Ullman Sails group. Brad’s distinguished design résumé and decades of experience building and optimizing D4® make him a perfect fit for Ullman Sails as it continues to push breakthrough technologies for cruisers and racers alike.

“We are extremely excited about adding Brad to our team,” said Ullman Sails President David Ullman. “Brad’s depth of knowledge about sail design and out-of-the-box thinking make him a great addition to Ullman Sails.” Brad, who has designed and constructed sails for nearly 40 years, was one of the principle team members who created and refined the D4® sail membrane technology – one of the most significant advances in modern sailmaking.

Based in Sydney, Australia, Brad will focus on creating and testing new products for Ullman Sails’ customers while simultaneously enhancing the current offerings of the group.

“I have known of Dave Ullman and Ullman Sails from my earliest years in sailmaking,” said Brad. “Ullman Sails is redefining itself by focusing on true product innovation, not just incremental improvement, as a key to success. It is clear that Ullman Sails is entering an exciting time with tremendous possibilities and I look forward to being part of that.”

As an industry leader Ullman Sails is dedicated to identifying new technologies that offer solutions for its customers. Since joining with Jannie Reuvers Sails, one of the world’s largest and most technologically advanced sail production facilities in 2013, Ullman Sails has expanded its investment in technical innovation. The benefits can already be seen with the autumn 2014 release of the exclusive FiberPath Phantom Series.

In addition to his work with D4®, Brad has acted as a technical expert and regional agent for SMAR Azure Ltd., a leader in sail and rig design and analysis software. Brad also has extensive experience working with yacht designers, boat builders and naval architects. On the water, his sailing background includes multiple Sydney Hobart Race wins and participation in several Admiral’s Cup campaigns.