Highfield Boats appoints new CEO amid restructure

Highfield Boats, a manufacturer of aluminium rigid inflatable boats (RIBs), has announced a new governance structure to support its growth and development plans.

Julien Carussi, co-founder, co-owner and current CEO, will transition into the role of chair, focusing on long-term strategy and industrial expansion for the China-based boatbuilder. Paul Blanc has been appointed chief executive officer, effective 1 September 2025.

Since founding the company in 2011, Carussi has led Highfield from a start-up to a business with a presence in more than 50 countries and over 60,000 boats produced.

“Highfield is entering a new chapter,” says Carussi. “Our business has reached a scale where reinforcing the team is essential to sustain our momentum. By welcoming Paul as CEO, I can dedicate more focus to industrial growth while ensuring continuity in our strategy. This is about strengthening Highfield for the future, not changing its course.”

Blanc brings around 20 years of leadership experience in the marine industry, most recently as an executive at Groupe Beneteau. His knowledge of global markets, product strategy and dealer development will support Highfield’s next stage of development.

“I am honoured to join Highfield Boats, a brand I have long admired for its innovation, quality and entrepreneurial spirit,” says Blanc. “What Julien and his team have achieved in just a few years is exceptional. I look forward to working with them to build on this impressive legacy and accelerate the company’s growth.”