“Taking the helm at Next Yacht Group is more than just a new chapter in my career,” says Sebastiano Fanizza. “It’s a chance to shape the future of a company with extraordinary potential.” Next Yacht Group, which owns the superyacht brands AB Yachts and Maiora, has appointed him as its new CEO.
Although Fanizza began his career in the automotive industry, he’s been in the yachting sector for the past 20 years. In fact, much of that time has been with the Azimut-Benetti Group. He joined Azimut Yachts in 2005, for instance, holding multiple positions for the following decade. Fanizza ultimately became the sales and service director for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa plus Asia-Pacific regions. He especially focused on the Chinese market, increasing Azimut’s footprint throughout Asia, too. From 2015 to 2018, Fanizza was the commercial and business development director for Nautor Swan. Leonardo Ferragamo, Nautor Swan’s owner, recruited him to reorganize the sales network and increase contracts. In 2018 the late Paolo Vitelli, head of Azimut-Benetti Group, convinced him to return as chief commercial officer of Benetti. Through to his departure last year in May, Benetti landed several significant superyachts, three exceeding 100 meters (328 feet) each.
Next Yacht Group is similarly seeking a growth path, though for different types of yachts. AB Yachts currently counts the super-sporty AB 130 yacht (above) as its flagship. It can build to 150 feet (46 meters) LOA. Maiora, meanwhile, recently introduced the Maiora M|36 yacht (below), a 122-foot (37-meter) trideck. Her styling sets the stage for a new series that eventually will include larger megayachts, too. Overall, according to Next Yacht Group, it has increased its workforce by 110 percent over the past four years.
“I’m excited to work alongside a great team to bring new energy to two extraordinary brands like Maiora and AB Yachts,” Fanizza states. “Together, we will continue to push boundaries, blending Italian craftsmanship with smart innovation to offer our clients something that truly reflects their vision of life at sea.”
Next Yacht Group nextyachtgroup.com
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