Our KYS Team
David Shaw
Owner
David Shaw was introduced to the boat business at 11 when he began spending his summer breaks working in the service department at KYS for his father, Leon Shaw. He began helping his father restore old boats and bringing them to life and fell in love with the aspect of designing and building a boat. Through his career, David has developed his skill & experience in everything from repair and maintenance to boat building and design. In 1983 David began working for Jefferson Yachts as a draftsman, designer and technical representative where he fine-tuned the “hands-on” approach to boat building he learned from his father. David developed over 50 new motor yachts for the Jefferson line as well as the popular Marlago Center Console line. In 2012 David and his wife Becky purchased the assets of Kentuckiana Yacht Sales and Jefferson Yacht. Since then he has re-tooled the Marlago to an all-new 37 with the popular new center cuddy deck design. The New 37 Marlago fits a niche of the market that others are missing, by producing a 37’ center console that can fit normal sized boat lifts, and runs speeds in the mid 60’s with twin engines at a more affordable retail price. As David’s customers and associates know he is available and willing to help them with their questions and boating needs.
Joe Jarles
Sales Manager
Joe came to us just after he retired from the Fire Department, retiring as a Major in charge of the training bureau. Joe’s love of boating and his close relationship with the team at Marlago drew him to add his passion to the Marlago team. When Joe started with the company, he took the helm in charge of our government and commercial sales construction and sales. In 2007 with Joes leadership and a strong partnership with Zodiac, we were recognized as the number one selling Military and Professional builder in the US. Joe is a car and motorcycle enthusiast and collector. In 2017 Joe was promoted to the position of Marlago National Sales Manager and oversees the dealer network and development and Marlago’s from completion at the factory to its new owner.
Justin Shaw
Parts, Sales, Marketing Representative
Jamie Donohue
Sales Executive
Jamie Donohue brings a lifetime of boating experience to KYS. His first income came from washing boats at age 12. At 20 he was restoring wooden cruisers. For 20 years he was involved in all aspects of boat sales and construction of custom aluminum yachts and commercial vessels at Pluckebaum Custom Boats. After Pluckebaum was involved with Paradigm Yacht Sales for over 12 years before they merged with KYS. With an Any Gross Tons Masters license, he has worked on the steamers Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen, and the Belle of Louisville. The Belle of Louisville experience has lasted for over 20 years. Whether you are buying or selling a 12 foot dingy or a 120-foot mega yacht let Jamie’s 60 years of being a boat addict give you the advantage. Contact Jamie at 502-523-2250.