BAVARIA YACHTS has announced a planned generational change at the top of its management team, marking another milestone in the shipyard’s ongoing growth strategy. Effective immediately, Norbert Leifeld assumes the role of CEO, succeeding Michael Müller, who has led the company since 2019. Together with Thorsten Gatz, who continues as CFO, Leifeld will oversee operations at one of Europe’s leading yacht builders.
Leifeld, who has served as BAVARIA’s COO since 2023, brings extensive industry expertise to his new position. Prior to joining BAVARIA, he spent 15 years as a consultant specialising in product strategy, development, and production at a prominent German shipyard. He also serves as president of the French catamaran builder Nautitech within the Bavaria Holding group. Gatz, who has been managing the company’s finances since 2022, remains in his role.
Michael Müller, who steered BAVARIA YACHTS through a transformative period—including the development of the acclaimed BAVARIA C-Line sailing yachts and SR-Line motorboats—will move to the Advisory Board of Bavaria Yachtbau Holding, under the chairmanship of Kai Brandes (CMP). Müller is expected to remain closely involved as an advisor to the management team. Additionally, Dr. Hans-Peter Mertens, Chairman of the Stürtz Group, has joined the Advisory Board.
In a statement, Brandes paid tribute to Müller’s leadership during a challenging period marked by the pandemic and supply chain disruptions. “On behalf of the Advisory Board and the entire workforce, I extend our gratitude and respect to Michael Müller for his outstanding contributions as CEO,” said Brandes. “I am pleased he will continue to support us as a member of the Advisory Board.”
Brandes also praised Leifeld’s appointment, noting his deep knowledge of both BAVARIA and the wider yacht industry. “We have worked closely with Norbert for over seven years. His successful management of numerous key projects has earned him the respect of colleagues, suppliers, and dealers alike. Few people understand BAVARIA YACHTS from so many perspectives,” he added.
Looking ahead, BAVARIA YACHTS sees itself well-positioned to meet future challenges. The company highlighted its flexible production processes, implemented two years ago to adapt to changing market conditions, as a key strength.
Plans are also underway to expand the model range to include electric propulsion options, further aligning with evolving customer demands. The focus will increasingly be on enhancing the customer experience—through an expanded service centre network, more comprehensive aftersales support, and training programs aimed at both new and existing owners.
With these initiatives, BAVARIA YACHTS continues to build on its heritage while steering confidently toward the future.
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