Bourbon has completed its financial and capital restructuring with the arrival of Davidson Kempner Capital Management LP and Fortress Investment Group LLC as new majority shareholders. This operation, approved by the Tribunal des activités économiques de Marseille on July 17, 2025, marks a strategic turning point for the company specialised in maritime services for the offshore energy industry.
Reduced debt and renewed flexibility
The group’s new financial structure is based on a partial debt-to-equity conversion and the injection of new funds. As a result, Bourbon now reports a debt ratio below 1.5x earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA). This strengthened financial position will enable the group to invest in its fleet, notably by reactivating offshore support vessels (OSVs), extending their operational lifespan and renewing its crewboat fleet.
At the same time, the internal organisation has been simplified. The former model based on three independent operating entities has been replaced by a unified structure with centralised governance and streamlined management, aimed at increasing agility and operational efficiency in a competitive market environment.
New leadership and consolidated governance
A new governance structure was implemented following the General Meeting held on December 19, 2025. Gaël Bodénès was appointed President of the Group to oversee the transition phase until his planned departure in mid-2026. The Board of Directors is now chaired by Bruno Chabas, former Chief Executive Officer of SBM Offshore, who brings over three decades of experience in the energy sector.
The Board also includes representatives from the new shareholders Davidson Kempner and Fortress, as well as industry and finance professionals. Simultaneously, a new Executive Committee was appointed, comprising François Sordet (Chief Financial Officer), Stephan Midenet (Chief Operating Officer), Lucia Checcaglini (Chief Supply Chain Officer), Karim Mebarek (Chief Commercial Officer), Jean-Christophe Laran (Chief Human Resources Officer) and Rodolphe Bouchet (Chief Transformation Officer).
Reinforced position in offshore markets
Bourbon is betting on the growth of the offshore sector, driven by the global recovery in energy investments and regional diversification. The group maintains an active presence in West Africa, the Guyana–Suriname basin, the Middle East and Asia, where demand for specialised maritime services remains strong.
The entry of Davidson Kempner and Fortress reflects the sustained interest of international investors in strategic offshore energy assets. These funds plan to support Bourbon’s rise as a competitive platform through 2030. The group’s restored financial stability is expected to facilitate the execution of its growth strategy in a demanding market.
