Yachting Professionals Inspire Students at IUM Career Week
As part of IUM’s Career Week, an initiative designed to connect students with industry leaders, the university welcomed a diverse panel of professionals from the yachting industry. Representatives from Royal Yachts International, Fraser Yachts, Denison Yachting, and Denis & Martin shared their experiences, offering students valuable insights into one of Monaco’s most dynamic and competitive sectors.
From Classroom to Career
The panel highlighted how internships often serve as the gateway to full-time employment. Maria Anferova, Head of HR at Royal Yachts International, explained that many interns from IUM have transitioned into permanent roles, with some even seeing positions created specifically for them. This strong link between the university and the industry demonstrates how academic preparation can seamlessly evolve into a professional opportunity.
Inside the World of Yachting Careers
Students were introduced to a wide range of roles beyond the well-known broker positions.
- Charter Management: Radostina Trifonova described her role managing the European fleet, representing yacht owners, handling contracts, and overseeing marketing and business development.
- Sales Brokerage: Ioannis Petrocheilos explained the complexity of representing both buyers and sellers, requiring constant adaptability and trust-building.
- Marketing & Events: Angela Haup De Castro Silva and Elodie Arnaud emphasized the importance of brand image, campaigns, and major events such as the Monaco Yacht Show, which serve as both showcases and networking platforms.
The Human Factor in Luxury Yachting: A recurring theme was the central role of relationships. Natalie Léveillé from Denison Yachting stressed that, despite technological tools such as CRM systems, most deals still rely on personal trust, word of mouth, and long-term client relationships. Whether through coffee meetings, WhatsApp conversations, or concierge-style support, brokers and managers build connections that go far beyond a single transaction. She indicates that compliance, though often overlooked, has become a crucial career path in the yachting industry, especially in Monaco, which is now considered a higher-risk country.
Marketing: Experience vs. Investment
The panel drew a clear distinction between charter and sales marketing. Charter campaigns focus on creating emotion and unforgettable experiences for clients, while sales are more technical, centered on investment and responsibility. Social media plays a role in brand awareness, but true conversions often come from networking, events, and direct client engagement.
Advice for Future Professionals Panelists encouraged students not to limit themselves to the most visible roles. Starting as assistants in different departments can provide a broader understanding of the industry and open doors to diverse career paths. Radostina Trifonova shared her own journey, noting how beginning as an assistant gave her a deeper perspective and prepared her for her current leadership role.
Strengthening the Link Between Education and Employment
This session perfectly embodied the mission of IUM Career Week: bridging academic learning with professional reality. By engaging with professionals across marketing, HR, charter management, and sales, students gained a clearer vision of the skills, adaptability, and mindset required to succeed in the luxury yachting industry.
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