BRP CEO says Ski-Doo maker's future lies overseas amid trade uncertainty

Departing BRP CEO José Boisjoli says the company will pursue growth overseas while a named successor prepares to take over, and uncertainty over the North American trade pact is a prominent concern.

José Boisjoli is retiring as CEO of BRP at the end of January after 22 years leading the company. He described a major 2022 cyberattack that temporarily halted production as a defining challenge of his tenure. Boisjoli says BRP will look to grow overseas in markets such as Brazil, Finland, the Middle East and Asia, with greater emphasis on ATVs and side-by-sides. The board has named Denis Le Vot to succeed him starting Sunday amid uncertainty over the North American trade pact. Key facts: - A 2022 cyberattack forced a temporary shutdown of BRP factories and production returned in stages afterwards. - José Boisjoli is retiring after more than two decades as CEO, and Denis Le Vot has been named his successor, starting Sunday. - Boisjoli says BRP plans to pursue growth abroad, citing markets including Brazil, Finland, the Middle East and parts of Asia and a focus on ATVs and side-by-sides. - Uncertainty about the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement was identified as a significant risk to BRP's North American operations. Summary: Boisjoli leaves after expanding BRP's global reach and overseeing major operational challenges, including the 2022 cyber incident. The company is positioning for overseas growth while noting trade negotiations in North America as a potential headwind. Denis Le Vot's start as CEO on Sunday is the next scheduled leadership step.