COURTESY BARKER BOATS

Strike Force Seven announced yesterday that it has completed a management-led buyout of Sarasota, Fla.-based Barker Boatworks. Kevin Basirico and Ross Kennedy will own and operate the builder. Kennedy is chief executive officer, and Basirico is president of sales and marketing.

“I am extremely excited to join forces with Ross and welcome him to the Barker Boatworks family,” Basirico said in a statement. “His deep industry knowledge and proven leadership skills will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and expand our product offerings.”

Kennedy previously served as president of Marine Concepts and president of GG Schmitt & Sons.

“Barker Boatworks has a rich history of producing exceptional boats, and Kevin and I are honored to lead the company into its next chapter,” Kennedy said in the statement.