French yacht builder Fountaine Pajot has announced that chief executive officer (CEO) Nicolas Gardies is set to retire in 2027, as part of a planned leadership transition.
The decision comes as the Group approaches its 50th anniversary with plans to strengthen its governance in support of its next phase of development.
To ensure a smooth transition, the board has appointed deputy CEO Mathieu Fountaine to continue the Group's long-term development strategy, with Gardies progressively transferring his responsibilities.
The board also announced the appointment of Steven Guedeu as deputy CEO of the Fountaine Pajot Group, tasked with overseeing the company's sales and marketing activities and supporting the execution of its long-term development strategy.
Meanwhile, the Group revealed an expanded executive committee to support this next phase of its development, along with the decision not to renew Romain Motteau's appointment as deputy CEO. After more than 20 years with Fountain Pajot Group, Motteau will be embarking on a new strategic project, though he will continue to be involved in the Group's international activities.
"This strengthened executive committee reflects the Fountaine Pajot Group's commitment to increasing agility and organisational effectiveness by bringing together complementary expertise to address the industrial, commercial, human and environmental challenges that will shape the Group's future development," the Group stated.
In the first half of its fiscal 2025/2026 year, the Group generated €136.3 million in revenue with positive profitability. The company is also continuing to invest in the "most ambitious product roadmap in its history", continued innovation and an energy transition.
Fountaine Pajot Group comprises Fountaine Pajot Sailing Catamarans, Dufour and its recently launched Fountaine Pajot Yachts brand dedicated to larger yacht models.
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