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Shaping the Future: Leadership Changes Over 2025
This year, the superyacht industry has witnessed a series of transformative leadership changes, signalling a new era of innovation, vision, and growth across some of the world’s most prestigious shipyards. From Europe to Turkey to the United States, 2025 has proven a year of both reflection and forward-looking ambition.
Oceanco has opened a bold new chapter. After 15 years under the stewardship of the Barwani family, the shipyard now welcomes Gabe Newell, the visionary founder of Valve, as their new leader. Unlike some ownership transitions, Newell’s involvement is deeply personal: he brings a hands-on approach rooted in respect for craftsmanship, innovation, and the people who turn extraordinary designs into reality. Meanwhile, the Barwani family continues to shape Turkey’s Turquoise Yachts, leaving Oceanco poised to explore new horizons under a philosophy that is human-first, ocean-minded, and future-focused.
In the Netherlands, Heesen Yachts also returned to Dutch ownership, with entrepreneur Laurens Last acquiring the celebrated yard. Known for their aluminium and steel motor yachts, Heesen recorded a remarkable 209 million euros in revenue last year, underlining their strong foundation. Last, a passionate yachtsman and experienced entrepreneur, aims to drive Heesen forward through global expansion, technological innovation, and a continued commitment to bespoke yacht craftsmanship.
Meanwhile, British shipyard Sunseeker has entered a transitional phase following the departure of CEO Andrea Frabetti. Frabetti, who has guided the company since 2019, steps down as the shipyard prepares for the next stage of growth supported by new capital investment. Scott Millar of Teneo Financial Advisory takes the reins as interim CEO, bringing decades of experience across the luxury and yacht sectors, and ensuring continuity while Sunseeker seeks their next permanent leader.
Turkish yard Turquoise Yachts has also welcomed a new CEO in Burak Akgül, who assumes the role following Patrik von Sydow’s departure. With more than three decades of experience in the region, Akgül’s leadership promises to strengthen Turquoise’s operations and expand its hybrid megayacht programme, including notable projects such as RAFELE.
Across the Atlantic, historic American shipyard Burger Boat Company has completed a strategic leadership restructuring. Jim Ruffolo, after more than 30 years in executive roles, moves into the Chairman position, while Nick Siler steps in as President and CEO. With a renewed executive team, Burger is focusing on sustainable growth, operational excellence, and the delivery of high-quality yachts, commercial vessels, and military projects, continuing a tradition that spans more than 160 years.
Finally, the Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss) has seen its own transition, with Jan-Bart Verkuyl of Feadship Royal Van Lent elected as president and Robert van Tol named executive director from January 2026. Their appointments reflect the association’s ongoing mission to support the industry through regulatory advocacy, innovation, and sustainable practices, ensuring the sector remains resilient and forward-looking.
As 2025 draws to a close, these leadership changes illustrate a wider trend: superyacht builders are embracing visionary stewardship, combining tradition with forward-thinking innovation. From Oceanco’s new partnership with a technology pioneer to Heesen’s return to Dutch ownership, the industry is poised to navigate a future defined by craftsmanship, ingenuity, and enduring excellence at sea.