Mikael Heikfolk

Mikael Heikfolk is the CEO of Oceanvolt, a global leader in electric propulsion systems for sailboats, light commercial ferries, and charter vessels. With over 800 systems installed worldwide, Oceanvolt is at the forefront of marine electrification. Mikael is leading the company through a critical scale-up phase, focusing on industrializing operations and expanding into the U.S.—the world’s largest boating market.

Mikael brings over 30 years of leadership experience in the marine, engineering, and manufacturing sectors. He is known for transforming companies through strategic growth, operational restructuring, and international expansion. His work has involved close collaboration with private equity firms, listed companies, and family-owned businesses.

Prior to Oceanvolt, Mikael was Chief Business Development Officer at Nimbus Group AB, where he drove the company’s U.S. expansion, led the acquisition and integration of EdgeWater Boats, and restructured Nordic operations for greater profitability. His initiatives boosted margins, streamlined production, and aligned Nimbus’s strategy with global market trends. As CEO of Axopar Boats from 2017 to 2022, Mikael led the company’s revenue growth from €22 million to €148 million, making it Europe’s most profitable motorboat manufacturing concept. He expanded operations across multiple OEM partners, built new production facilities, and forged strategic partnerships with BRABUS, Mercury Marine, and MarineMax. Axopar became a leading international brand, especially in the U.S., and was the first European boat builder to win the U.S. “Boat of the Year” award. Earlier roles include CEO of Lankapaja Oy and senior advisory positions through his own firm, Heikfolk Advisory.

At Initiative Mikael will contribute to Seaside Chat: Advancing Ocean Tech.