Mylor Yacht Harbour has found the “dream candidate” to replace its inspirational leader Roger Graffy, who has stepped down after 20 years in his role of managing director.

Neil Salter has spent the last 18 years working with Marina Development Limited (MDL), managing some of the largest marinas and their related operations in the UK as well as setting up marinas in Spain and Italy and consulting widely within the industry.

Devon-born Neil has now moved to Cornwall from Southampton to head up the thriving, state-of-the-art marine business built up by Roger when he took the helm at Mylor Yacht Harbour two decades ago.

Spotting its huge potential he and his co-owner wife Dinah set about a £7 million investment programme to establish one of Cornwall’s busiest boatyards and marinas – matching Mylor’s fabric and infrastructure to its incomparable natural environment.

“This is a golden chance I couldn’t miss,” said Neil, “a chance to use all my years of experience in the marine field, working with a fantastic team and building on Roger’s great legacy – all in one of the most beautiful parts of the British Isles.”

Almost 100 quality candidates applied to be Mylor’s new managing director but Neil, with his exact experience and expertise in marina operations, strategic business development and skill in building and encouraging great teams was a clear and perfect match.

“We needed someone who would share our values and was capable of building and growing the business and all the people in it,” said Roger, who will remain as chairman and, with Dinah, will continue to own the company. “We also wanted to find someone who was better than me - and I’m delighted to announce that such a person exists.

“Neil believes in building great teams, delivering excellent customer service, developing sites, working safely and maximising financial performance – all of which makes him our dream candidate for the job.”

Neil will be in overall charge of all Mylor Yacht Harbour’s operations including its marine team of expert engineers, technicians and boat-builders, its boat storage and marina activities and developments.