Stephanie Revesz Thornton

From the Deck to the Boardroom: A Lifelong Mission for the Ocean

My relationship with the ocean began at six years old when my family moved onto a commercial fishing boat. Those formative years weren’t spent in a traditional neighborhood, but on the water, learning firsthand the immense power of the sea. That foundation sparked a lifelong mission: to understand the ocean scientifically and protect it through sustainable innovation.

I eventually left the deck to pursue a Batchelor’s degree in Marine Science, followed by a Master of Business Administration (MBA). This unique blend of scientific rigour and business strategy has defined my 45-year career—allowing me to speak the language of both the ecosystem and the economy.

A Legacy of Stewardship

Before leading in the private sector, I served at the highest levels of ocean governance as the Chief of the Marine Sacnturies Division within the Department of Commerce. There, I managed the delicate balance between preservation and human impact. Today, as the General Manager of Azura Ocean Technology, I am applying that lifetime of expertise to solve one of our era’s greatest challenges: climate-resilient growth.

• Commercial Innovation: We are developing the technology to harness the ocean’s kinetic energy, providing not just renewable power, but life-saving clean water for coastal communities.

• Strategic Agility: I combine the high-level policy experience of government service with the lean, rapid execution of the startup world.

• A Proven Track Record: With over 17 years of international leadership in the “Blue Economy,” I thrive on fostering the industry partnerships necessary to scale ocean energy solutions globally.

My goal remains what it has been since I was a child on that boat: to ensure the ocean remains a source of life and energy for generations to come.

Professional Background & Media

• Please and see my complete Curriculum Vitae here

• See a video of my work at the Australian Ocean Energy Group here

• Scroll down for a listing of my key achievements