Bavaria Yachts has announced a leadership change at the helm of the company, naming Norbert Leifeld as its new Chief Executive Officer. The transition, effective immediately, follows the departure of longtime CEO Michael Müller, who will continue to serve the company in an advisory role and as a member of Bavaria Yachtbau Holding’s advisory board.
Leifeld brings a broad range of experience to the position, having served as Bavaria’s Chief Operating Officer since 2023. He also holds a leadership role at Nautitech, the company’s French catamaran division. Prior to joining Bavaria’s executive team, Leifeld worked for more than a decade as a consultant in yacht production, design strategy, and manufacturing systems—experience that Bavaria says has earned him widespread respect among staff, suppliers, and dealers.
Müller, who led Bavaria through a period of global challenges including the pandemic and supply chain disruptions, played a central role in the development of the company’s C-Line sailing yachts and SR-Line powerboat range. His ongoing involvement on the advisory board is expected to support continuity as Bavaria continues to refine its product offerings and production processes.
In addition to Leifeld’s appointment, Bavaria Yachtbau Holding has expanded its advisory board with the addition of Dr. Hans-Peter Mertens, who brings leadership experience from the industrial manufacturing sector.
Company representatives highlighted the strength of their flexible production system, introduced two years ago as a proactive measure to help navigate market fluctuations. This adaptive approach, they say, positions Bavaria Yachts to remain resilient amid evolving global economic conditions.
Known for its broad line of sailboats and motor yachts, Bavaria continues to make moves in product innovation as well. Most recently, the company added electric propulsion options to select C-Line models, a signal of its growing focus on sustainable cruising solutions.
For more information, visit bavariayachts.com.
