Saxdor Yachts: Shipyard parts ways with managing director

Saxdor Yachts Erna Rusi and the company have parted ways after five years of working together. The managing director is leaving the company by mutual agreement. Under her leadership, the shipyard – founded in 2019 – grew to become one of the fastest-growing brands in the boating industry. Production capacity was expanded and a global dealer network comprising over 180 locations in more than 70 countries was established.

Management by Malibu Boats on an interim basis

Eric Lindquist is taking over as interim CEO. He is Chief Growth Officer at Malibu Boats, Saxdor’s US parent company. The listed company (ticker symbol MBUU) acquired the Finnish shipyard in March 2026. Lindquist emphasised that Saxdor should continue to operate as an independent brand with its own identity. Relationships with partners and customers are to be maintained. The search for a new CEO is already underway.

Growth over five years

Since delivering its first boat in 2020, Saxdor has launched ten models onto the market. The fleet ranges in length from 20 to 46 feet. Larger models are in the pipeline. The shipyard currently produces around 700 boats a year. Around 1,000 employees work at the sites in Elk, Poland, and Larsmo, Finland. The company’s head office is in Helsinki.

Technical developments

According to the company, Saxdor has developed Saxdor AI, the industry’s first AI-powered co-skipper. The system is designed to assist the skipper with navigation. In addition, the shipyard offers a digital showroom where customers can explore and configure boats virtually. The platform displays the models in a realistic environment.

Training of skilled workers

Through the Saxdor Academy, the company trains its own skilled workers. The academy offers specialised training in boatbuilding. The programme is designed to alleviate the shortage of skilled workers in the industry and to secure qualified staff for the company’s own production.

Outlook and Strategy

Saxdor intends to continue its international expansion and grow its dealer network. According to the company, the development of new technologies remains a key priority. The shipyard is building on the structures established in recent years. The brand’s autonomy within the Malibu Group is to be maintained.