Becky Bridgen has announced her retirement. She leaves her role as deputy CEO at Oyster Yachts.
Over the last four and half years, Bridgen has worked hand-in-hand with Richard Hadida, and the board, under the chairmanship of Ashley Highfield, to turnaround the fortunes of the luxury yacht business, following the acquisition of the business in 2018.
Bridgen retires leaving Oyster in good shape. During her time in the role, she has overseen the launch of three new models – the 565, 595 and earlier this year the latest addition to the fleet, the 50 foot Oyster 495. Production of Oyster Yachts has been transformed, the workforce has increased to over 600 and the manufacturing footprint expanded to Hythe Marine Park, with a state-of-the-art facility, which manufactures the new Oyster 495 and the 675. The outlook for Oyster is positive, with build bays full and order books on most models out to 2024.
“I’ve had the most incredible time at Oyster, and the workload over these past years has been immense with all the positive developments we’ve implemented, plus of course all the extra challenges as a result of Brexit and the global pandemic,” says Bridgen. “I’m sad to leave Oyster, but proud to have worked with such a great team and talented boat builders, who together make Oyster so special.”
Bridgen will continue to remain close to Oyster, collaborating and imparting her extensive knowledge and experience in a part time capacity, providing continuity to the business, customers and suppliers.
Richard Hadida commented, “We’re very sad to see Becky leave us. Becky has delivered an outstanding contribution to the turnaround programme at Oyster Yachts. She will always remain part of the Oyster family and I look forward to our continued collaboration.”
