As the yachting industry continues to grow, more and more women are making a significant impact on this traditionally male-dominated space. Here, YATCO takes the time to get to know some of these women – from all areas of the market – and highlight the important work that they contribute to the industry.
Lisa Salleron is a yacht broker at Windward Yachts.
- What drew you to the yachting world?
- How did you get your start in yachting?
- What are some challenges you face and how do you overcome them?
- What advice would you give to someone who is starting in the yachting industry?
- What is the most rewarding/enjoyable element of your job?
- What is your favorite thing about working in the yacht market?
- What are you currently working on and what keeps you motivated?
What drew you to the yachting world?
My love of travel, of the Caribbean, of sailing, and my family.
How did you get your start in yachting?
Through chance encounters. My husband happens to be a captain.
What are some challenges you face and how do you overcome them?
- Selling a yacht charter can be a lengthy process, often involving multiple rounds of negotiations, inspections, and paperwork. I built patience and persistence to reach good completion stats.
- Also the need to operate across different regions internationally. This requires a deep understanding of local market dynamics, regulations of the yachts that are across the globe and some destinations!
- Lastly, with growing awareness of environmental issues, there’s increasing pressure on the yacht industry to adopt sustainable practices and eco-friendly technologies. It is tough for us to navigate these concerns and address them with clients who are increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint.
What advice would you give to someone who is starting in the yachting industry?
Be honest with yourself and your customers – they’ll thank you for it.
What is the most rewarding/enjoyable element of your job?
When the guests send you a picture of them having fun onboard the yacht you advised them to book and they are having a great time!
What is your favorite thing about working in the yacht market?
Selling dreams.
What are you currently working on and what keeps you motivated?
UX website design, more efficient digital yachting transformation. There is a lot to do to smooth things up without losing mind [that] the people should be at the center of it all and yachting should be about the people!
