Camper & Nicholsons has appointed Benjamin Bensahel as chief executive following Sea Expandary Group’s acquisition of a majority stake in the yacht brokerage and services company earlier this year.
Bensahel succeeds Paolo Casani, who is leaving after completing the sale to the new majority shareholder.
In his new role, Bensahel will oversee Camper & Nicholsons’ worldwide brokerage, charter, new construction and yacht management operations.
The appointment is an internal promotion. Bensahel joined the Monaco office as sales manager in 2020 and became head of sales for Europe before adding responsibility for the US and Middle East.
He most recently served as chief commercial officer for Europe and the Middle East.
New opportunities
“It is a tremendous honour to take on the role of CEO of Camper & Nicholsons, a company with such an extraordinary heritage and an exceptional team of people around the world,” said Bensahel.
He said his priorities would include expanding the company’s presence in established markets, developing new opportunities and increasing collaboration between sales, charter, new construction and yacht management.
“Having been part of the business for the past six years, I have seen first-hand the talent, dedication and expertise that make Camper & Nicholsons so special,” he added.
“I look forward to working alongside our teams to drive the next phase of growth.”
International network
Casani was appointed president of the board in 2015 and chief executive in 2017. During his tenure, Camper & Nicholsons expanded its international network with new offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai, Athens, Cannes and Viareggio.
The company also broadened its service portfolio through the creation of new-build, design, insurance solutions and corporate services divisions. Camper & Nicholsons credited Casani with leading the turnaround of the business before its change of ownership.
“I am grateful to the board for their trust, and to Paolo for his leadership and support over the years,” said Bensahel.
