Odyssey Appoints COO

Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc., a leader in the field of worldwide deep ocean shipwreck exploration, announced the addition of George J. Becker Jr. as COO. Becker brings more than 30 years experience in major leisure industry profit center development, management, marketing, staffing and operations. A skilled new business developer and team builder, he will be leading Odyssey Marine Exploration through the next phases of the company's growth. Becker, formerly chairman and CEO, Sea World of Texas, president and CEO of Sea World of California and president and CEO of Sea World of Florida, is also a recognized professional in forging public-private sector relationships to accelerate economic development opportunities and support business education initiatives. "George Becker has the skills and experience necessary to help us take Odyssey to the next level," stated John Morris, President and CEO of Odyssey Marine Exploration. "As we move to the recovery phase on our Sussex project this year, the marketing, tourism and exhibit infrastructure must be developed to maximize potential revenue streams for the company. George Becker's track record developing leisure and entertainment companies is stellar, and we are very excited to have him on board." In addition to his many years of service to Sea World, Becker has been active in a number of national, regional and state visitor organizations. He served as executive director of the Florida Tourism Commission. In 1983, he was president of the Florida Chamber of Commerce and in 1984 he chaired Governor Bob Graham's Commission on Public Facility Financing. More information on George Becker, current shipwreck projects and the company's other activities can be found at Odyssey's website, www.shipwreck.net.