Oyster Yachts appoints former HanseYachts executive as new CEO

British bluewater boatbuilder Oyster Yachts has appointed Stefan Zimmermann Zschocke as chief executive officer (CEO), effective 1 September 2025.

In June 2025, Ashley Highfield announced he would be standing down from his CEO role with Oyster, after seven years with the boatbuilder.

Zimmermann Zschocke brings more than three decades of international industry experience to the role, with a career bridging both engineering and operations leadership, including senior appointments with globally renowned brands such as Rolls-Royce Power Solutions. His experience extends to the marine sector, where he most recently served as a member of the executive board of HanseYachts AG.

Together with his fellow board member, the company implemented a focused brand and product strategy and launched a number of award-winning models – including the Hanse 460 and the Moody 48 DS, both named European Yacht of the Year, as well as the Fjord 39 XP, which earned international recognition.

Zimmermann Zschocke’s appointment comes as Oyster embarks on the company’s next phase of growth with expansion of the model lineup and customer experiences including the Oyster World Rally, Bluewater Academy and Oyster Explorers Club.

According to Oyster, the new Oyster Yachts CEO has built a reputation for delivering transformational improvements in manufacturing quality and efficiency, while remaining customer-focused. During his time working on Aston Martin engines and powertrains, when the company was under Ford ownership, he contributed significantly to their performance development.

Zimmermann Zschocke has a master’s degree in engineering and economics and is also a lifelong and competitive sailor.

Zimmermann Zschocke says: “Oyster yachts are, to me, the embodiment of a sailing dream – the finest yachts one can own. I look forward to building upon Oyster’s strong foundation and leading the company to the top of the global market – through industrial strength, innovation and a people-driven culture.”

He has led teams across complex technical industries, managing operations, production and supply chain functions with a sharp focus on innovation, process quality and sustainability. He has also worked extensively in the UK, further aligning him with Oyster’s heritage as a proudly British brand.

Richard Hadida, owner and chairman of Oyster Yachts adds: “Stefan brings a rare combination of technical excellence and true sailing passion. His engineering background makes him uniquely capable of understanding complex technical projects, and he shares our belief that building a world-class yacht starts with understanding what it means to sail one. I’m confident that under his leadership, Oyster will continue to set the benchmark for bluewater luxury, innovation and exploration.”

Oyster yachts are handcrafted in the United Kingdom.

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