Colonna’s Shipyard hires new CFO

Norfolk-based Colonna’s Shipyard announced last week that it has appointed Brian Waterfield to be its new chief financial officer.

Waterfield started his new position on Monday, succeeding previous CFO Rebecca Wieters, who had held the position since 2017.

Wieters, who is also a vice president, will leave Colonna’s in early May.

“We want to thank Rebecca for her dedication and many contributions during her tenure, and we wish her all the best in her future endeavors,” Colonna’s spokesperson Ashley Wisniewski said in an email.

As CFO, Waterfield will oversee the company’s accounting function and support financial strategy. He joins Colonna’s Shipyard after more than nine years with accounting company Binder Dijker Otte, most recently serving as an assurance director in the firm’s Norfolk office.

At BDO, Waterfield advised middle-market organizations across several industries, focusing on government contracting, nonprofit organizations and construction. He led audit and review engagement teams and advised executives and boards on internal controls, accounting standards and financial analysis.

“Brian’s background in financial assurance and his expertise in the government contracting space will be a strong asset as we continue to support our customers and invest in the future,” Colonna’s Shipyard Chairman and CEO Randall Crutchfield said in a statement. “We’re excited to welcome him to the team.”

A Hampton Roads native, Waterfield has also worked with clients ranging from nonprofits to multinational corporations. He is also active in the community, serving on the finance committee of the Elizabeth River Trail Foundation and as a board member of Junior Achievement of Greater Hampton Roads.

Waterfield has a master’s degree in accounting and a bachelor’s degree in finance from William & Mary and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants.

Founded in 1875, Colonna’s provides ship repair, marine and industrial machining, and steel fabrication. It is the oldest continuously operating private shipyard in the United States. Colonna’s employs more than 700 people and operates three dry docks and a 1,000-metric-ton travel lift. It also supplies on-site welding services and has expanded its reach to San Diego and Kentucky.

A fourth drydock under construction is expected to be operational in 2028.