YATCO’s broker of the month series examines the unique life experiences that brought these brokers into the world of yachting, who influenced them, and what they seek to change in the industry.
Gianni Ricciardi is the Managing Director & Yacht Broker at FORWARDYACHTS. He has been working in the industry since 2005.
Everything You Need to Know About YATCO’s Broker of the Month Gianni Ricciardi
How did you get your start in yachting?
Real love at first sight. In 2005, I had just graduated in law and was practicing in a law firm in La Spezia. By chance, through a friend, I encountered a historic Italian brokerage company (Ecyb). In less than half a day I left my prospective career as a lawyer to dive into the world of yacht brokerage. I have never stopped since then. I thank myself every day for making that choice.
I left my prospective career as a lawyer to dive into the world of yacht brokerage. I have never stopped since then. I thank myself every day for making that choice.
Is there anyone who influences you – someone in the industry that you look up to – and why?
At the beginning undoubtedly Renato Consolaro and Maura De Vercelli influenced me; they gave me a solid imprint on the fundamentals of the brokerage profession. Then, during my professional growth, I have always tried to learn from my talented colleagues. Today the best inspiration comes from clients who contribute to my job and allow me to be always on the point.
What do you enjoy most about the yachting industry – and what do you wish you could change?
The part that interests me most is the one that concerns the creative and innovative aspect of the yacht as a product. The enjoyable part is certainly related to the human and social elements of being a broker. Yachting is a great little world full of interesting people who make this community stimulating and fun, and sometimes a little weird.
Also, as an Italian, I want Italy to continue to be a point of reference for those who want to buy the most beautiful yachts, I wish that the sale formalities and regulations will improve to comply with the international standard. Sometimes bureaucracy limits performance.
I want Italy to continue to be a point of reference for those who want to buy the most beautiful yachts, I wish that the sale formalities and regulations will improve to comply with the international standard. Sometimes bureaucracy limits performance.
Tell us about your greatest brokerage accomplishment.
I like to think that the “great shot” will be the next one. I have been doing this job since 2005 and some big goals have been achieved but many others are still to be completed. I like to have a long-term vision, but for sure I am proud of selling around 200 yachts from 15 to 45 meters.
What are some of the challenges you come across at work, and how do you approach them?
Being in step with the times, improving personal skills, and having the instinct to follow the quick changes of the market are challenges to be faced every day. The persistent challenge is to harmonize and manage the wishes and needs of clients from different countries and from different cultures.
What is your favorite yacht currently for sale and why?
Featured Yacht Listing: Ferretti Custom Line 28.31m (92ft 11in) MERIDIANA
In the range of 30 meters in length, my favorite semi-displacement yacht is MERIDIANA. She is a superlative vessel. The Custom Line Navetta 28 model is undoubtedly a real bestseller thanks to its technical and stylistic qualities. It combines design, elegance, and comfort. It also represents an excellent deal for the second-hand market. She is just 5 years old and still very current and appreciated.
