YATCO’s Broker of the Month series examines the influences and catalysts that brought these brokers into the world of yachting, who influenced them, and what they seek to change in the industry.
Nicole Haboush is a Charter Broker for TJB Super Yachts.
Featuring Nicole Haboush, Charter Broker of TJB Super Yachts
How did you get your start in yachting?
I started as the Executive Assistant to four of the leading yacht brokers in the industry at Broward Marine in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. At the time, Broward Marine was the largest yacht builder in the US, and I was fortunate to learn from such an inspiring team. It was here that I discovered my talent for planning extraordinary yacht charter vacations for some of the world’s most elite clients.
My passion for yachting grew as I attended several of South Florida’s annual boat shows. I am naturally a people person so I knew early on I would always enjoy interacting with yacht owners and buyers. As time went on, many of those people became my loyal client base for years to come.
Is there anyone in particular who influences you – someone in the industry that you look up to, and why?
I have always admired the leaders of the yacht companies I’ve worked with: Ken Denison, Dwight Tracy, Peter Schmidt, and now Tim Johnson. They can discover brokers with an innate gift for building trust with colleagues and clients. This is one of the most important qualities a yacht broker needs to succeed. What sets these four leaders apart is how they inspire those around them to exceed their potential.
What do you enjoy most about the yachting industry – and what do you wish you could change?
I love the excitement of discussing a yacht charter vacation with my clients and developing the experience from beginning to end. It is always a pleasure to interact with clients who love yachting and the ocean. My Norwegian grandfather was a Captain of large ships during his life. Working in this industry connects me with my roots and brings me tremendous satisfaction. I enjoy being in an industry that keeps you on your toes with its constant developments. I am drawn to innovation in engineering and interior design, and I love the current trend in futuristic style.
I enjoy being in an industry that keeps you on your toes with its constant developments.
As far as changes go, I have found myself wishing we could have less of the competitive, cutthroat nature of some sales brokers I have met in the past. There is enough business for us all.
What are some of the challenges you have faced at work, and how do you approach them?
None of us ever wants to deal with breakdowns of yachts on charter during the peak season holiday period. I have always been good at keeping calm under pressure and I work tirelessly until I get the right result for my clients. In these situations, I have kept my head down and found a replacement yacht solution.
I have always been good at keeping calm under pressure and I work tirelessly until I get the right result for my clients
Tell us about your greatest accomplishment.
I am proud of my natural ability to develop trust and long-term relationships with my clients. I founded the yacht charter management division at Allied Marine Group, where I managed 30 yachts for charter up to 175ft!
I had similar success at Top Notch Marine. I sold over 30 small boats in my nine months there. I was then approached by United Yacht Sales and founded their new charter division. My passion is creating beautiful yacht charter experiences. My new role at TJB Super Yachts is a perfect fit at this stage in my long yachting career.
I sold over 30 small boats in my nine months at Top Notch Marine. I was then approached by United Yacht Sales and founded their new charter division.
