Highfield Boats has appointed Paul Blanc as its new chief executive officer with effect from September 1 2025.

Paul takes over the position a head of the aluminium rigid inflatable boatbuilder from co-founder and owner Julien Carussi.

Julien will transition into the role of chair, focusing on long-term strategy and industrial expansion for the China-based boatbuilder.

Highfield was founded in 2011 with Julien leading the brand from a start-up to a company with a presence in more than 50 countries that has produced more than 60,000 boats.

The company is now preparing for a new chapter with Paul’s appointment set to support its growth and development plans.

“Our business has reached a scale where reinforcing the team is essential to sustain our momentum,” said Julien.

“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.”

Paul joins Highfield with around 20 years of leadership experience in the marine industry, most recently as an executive at Groupe Beneteau.

“I am honoured to join Highfield Boats, a brand I have long admired for its innovation, quality and entrepreneurial spirit,” he said.

“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.”