Meet The IDEA Data Solutions Management Team
1st May 2024
Following recent changes at IDEA Data Solutions, allow us to introduce your Senior Management Team, as Christian Mühle takes the helm as Managing Director. Working to our mantra of ‘First Time Right’, the management team is tasked with continuing to provide excellent service to the yachting industry, and to ensure IDEA YACHT and IDEA FLEET maintain their position as leading yacht and fleet management tools.
Christian Mühle – Managing Director
Joining IDEA Data Solutions in the summer of 2011 as a Software Developer, Christian has embarked on a journey that has seen him rise to the role of Managing Director. Armed with a degree in Fachinformatik für Anwendungsentwicklung from BKTM, Mönchengladbach, he quickly rose to prominence, spearheading groundbreaking projects in logistics, POS systems and accounting. Notably, the Nord Rhine-Westphalia native pioneered a stock control and invoicing solution, revolutionising multi-location business operations.
Transitioning seamlessly into leadership roles, Christian’s proudest achievement lies in nurturing a dynamic team from two to twelve individuals, steering them towards unparalleled success in yacht and fleet management, notably with SBA. With a passion for technical writing and penchant for tinkering with electronics, you can often find him trying to beat the high score on the IDEA Arcade yacht game that he helped craft.
Jan Langweg – Head of Professional Services
Jan Langweg, hailing from the German town of Stadtlohn near the Dutch border, embodies a the values of technical prowess and managerial acumen. With a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Twente, Netherlands, he delved into a career marked by innovation and efficiency.
From his tenure at VDL ETG, where he orchestrated a remarkable 125% increase in efficiency through process improvements, to his role as Assistant Technical Manager at Feadship, overseeing the successful delivery of Feadship 1008, Jan has left an indelible mark on the yacht-building industry.
Joining IDEA Data Solutions in October 2020, initially as a Customer Success and Product manager, he rose to the position of Head of Professional Services and Business Development. Jan’s passion for challenging yacht projects shines through, notably with the implementation of IDEA Snag List. Beyond his professional pursuits, he finds solace in sailing and indulges his fascination with high-performance cars and cutting-edge technology.
Diego D’Esposito – Head of Product Development
Diego D’Esposito, originating from the picturesque landscapes of Napoli in Sorrento, Italy, is a seasoned professional in the tech industry. Graduating with a degree in Computer Science from Parthenope University of Naples, the avid SSC Napoli supporter has been an integral part of IDEA since April 20, 2015. Notably, his dedication to the SBA/FMP project showcased his commitment to excellence, and fostering invaluable client relationships.
Diego’s passion extends beyond the confines of his professional life. An avid enthusiast of cutting-edge technologies, he immerses himself in the realms of 3D printing and laser technology, sculpting intricate designs with precision. His fascination with virtual and augmented reality further underscores his unwavering curiosity and commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in his role as Head of Product Development.
Emily Taylor – Head of HR
A native of Manchester, UK, Emily brings a wealth of HR expertise to her role as Head of HR at IDEA Data Solutions. Joining the team permanently in April 2024 after nearly 5 years of supporting marine software businesses within parent company Volaris, Emily’s journey is marked by dedication and continuous learning.
With a BSc(Hons) degree in Psychology from Leeds Beckett University and a CIPD Level 5 qualification in HR Management, Emily’s career blossomed within Volaris, culminating in her current leadership position. Her proudest achievement lies in her ascent from an entry-level HR assistant to Head of HR, a testament to her resilience and passion for people development.
In her new role, Emily is thrilled to contribute to IDEA’s growth journey, with recent hugely positive engagement survey results. Beyond work, Emily’s interests span fitness and wellness advocacy, particularly in mental health, where she actively supports initiatives within her team.
Felix Menges – Head of Sales
Felix Menges, originally from Münster and now rooted in Essen, Germany, has embarked on a transformative journey within IDEA Data Solutions since June, 2014. Starting with studies in maths and economics to become a teacher, Felix found his calling in sales and the yachting industry.
Transitioning from the documentation department to a Sales Manager apprentice in 2016, Felix’s career trajectory underscores his commitment to growth and innovation. Now at the helm as Head of Sales since late 2021, he leads his team with a vision to expand and uphold the IDEA Standard – First Time Right
Proudly contributing to IDEA’s exponential growth over the past decade, Felix is passionate about delivering cutting-edge solutions that revolutionise vessel operations. Outside of work, the BVB supporter finds fulfillment in witnessing the industry’s evolution and championing collaborative software solutions to unite all stakeholders.
Michael Graveston – Head of Marketing
Joining IDEA in March 2023, Michael has previously worked as a Senior Content Marketer for a leading ecommerce SaaS company following his tenure spearheading the marketing efforts at Blackburn Rovers Football Club. With a BA Hons in Broadcasting, Digital Media and Communications from Liverpool John Moore’s University, Michael originally pursued a career in radio broadcasting before utilising his creative and communications skills to lead the radio station’s digital strategy.
Born in Hannover, Germany, Graveston was raised and resides in rural Lancashire, UK, and is an elected district Councillor and Deputy Mayor of his hometown.
Tasked to improve communications and brand awareness for IDEA Data Solutions, Michael has relished the opportunity to immerse himself in the yachting industry and has organised IDEA’s attendance at major tradeshows.