Sarasota, FL – February 17, 2025 – Strike Force Seven, LLC d/b/a Barker Boatworks, today announced it has completed a management-led buyout (MBO) of Barker Boatworks from Al Jarrell. Going forward, Kevin Basirico and Ross Kennedy will own and operate the luxury boat brand. In conjunction with the MBO, the company is also pleased to announce the appointment of Ross Kennedy as Chief Executive Officer alongside Kevin Basirico as President of Sales and Marketing. The transaction positions the company for continued growth and innovation under the new ownership and the leadership of its experienced management team.
Customers have grown to know Barker Boatworks as a renowned manufacturer of high-quality center console fishing boats, having a long-standing history of craftsmanship, high performance, and customer satisfaction. The MBO ensures the continuation of the company's legacy and commitment to its customers, employees, and community.
“I am extremely excited to join forces with Ross and welcome him to the Barker Boatworks family," added Kevin Basirico, President and Co-Owner. "His deep industry knowledge and proven leadership skills will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and expand our product offerings. Every decision I’ve made for this company has been driven by what’s best for our customers, and with Ross on board, I’m more confident than ever in the future of Barker Boatworks. I look forward to working closely with him to achieve our ambitious goals and deliver continued value to our incredible customers.”
The existing management team will remain in place and work closely with Ross Kennedy to execute the company’s strategic vision. Ross Kennedy brings extensive experience in the marine industry, having previously served as President of Marine Concepts and prior to that role, President of GG Schmitt and Sons where he drove significant growth and product innovation.
“I am incredibly excited to join Barker Boatworks alongside Kevin Basirico at this pivotal moment," said Ross Kennedy, CEO. "This MBO represents a significant opportunity to build upon the company’s strong foundation and solidify our growth strategy. Barker Boatworks has a rich history of producing exceptional boats, and Kevin and I are honored to lead the company into its next chapter. We are deeply grateful to Al Jarrell for his support and stewardship over the years, and we are confident that this transition will be seamless for our customers and employees.”
A key element of the new leadership structure will be the focused yet collaborative approach between Ross Kennedy and Kevin Basirico. Ross Kennedy will leverage his operational expertise to streamline processes, enhance manufacturing operations, and ensure quality is held to the utmost importance. Kevin Basirico will focus on driving sales growth and strengthening the company’s brand presence in the marketplace. Together, the two leaders will collaborate closely on new product development, ensuring that Barker Boatworks continues to deliver innovative and market-leading boats that meet the evolving needs of its customers.
Barker Boatworks is a leading manufacturer of both monohull and catamaran center console fishing boats. Founded more than a decade ago with the goal of building the world’s best boats, Barker has built a reputation for best in class yacht-quality fit-and-finish, customer satisfaction, and high performance. With a commitment to craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, Barker Boatworks has established a strong reputation in the marine industry.
Kevin Basirico was born and raised in Hilton Head Island, SC. Growing up in the South Carolina Lowcountry, he developed a deep passion for hunting, fishing, and boating. Upon graduating from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Natural Resource Management, and a Minor in Wildlife Fisheries Biology, Kevin fulfilled his lifelong goal of acquiring his USCG 100 GRT Master Captains License.
Kevin spent the next four years as an Account Executive for national advertising firms in Bluffton, SC and Charlotte, NC. Since accepting his dream job with Barker Boatworks nearly a decade ago, Kevin has served in several roles, including Plant Manager, VP of Operations, VP of Sales & Marketing, and, most recently, President of Sales & Operations. Kevin currently lives in Sarasota with his wife, Victoria, and their two children, Owen and Wade.
Ross Kennedy, a Sarasota native, has been around boats his entire life and has made a successful career in the boating industry after graduating college. Most recently Ross was President of Marine Concepts, the largest composite tooling manufacturer in the United States. Before leading Marine Concepts Ross was President of GG Schmitt and Sons, a premier stainless steel and aluminum fabricator in the marine industry.
Ross Kennedy holds a Bachelor's of Industrial Engineering from Auburn University as well as an MBA from Temple University. He has received numerous awards including Boating Industry’s 40 Under 40 Award and SRQ Magazine's 35 Under 35. Ross also finds time to give back to his alma mater by serving on the Alumni Council Board of Auburn University’s Industrial Engineering Department. Ross and his wife, Brenna are avid outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy their time on the water fishing and diving.
Kevin Basirico | President, Sales and Marketing | 941-477-4700 | www.barkerboats.com