After 11 years of outstanding work from our French Riviera office, we sat down with Charter Director, Judith Amselli, to learn a little more about her impressive career.
OI: How did you get into the yachting industry?
I started working with a large superyacht brokerage company 35 years ago and instantly fell in love with the yachting industry. I learnt a lot from the experienced Team at the company and before long owned my own yacht brokerage firm.
Running my own business gave me so much invaluable knowledge about the industry and how it operates. 11 years ago Peter Hürzeler offered to acquire my company and for me it felt like the timing was right. So, I started working here at Ocean Independence with Peter and 11 years on I am still as passionate about my job as when I started.
OI: What is your favourite part of the job?
For me it’s the retail side of the charter industry. I love being in direct contact with clients and helping them create memories that will last a lifetime.
I take great satisfaction in making my clients happy and providing them with beautiful charters year after year. When they send me an email at the end of their charter telling me how much they enjoyed their time on board it makes all the hard work worth it.
OI: You have been working with Ocean Independence for 11 years now. What do you think are the most important factors for your sustained success?
First and foremost, being committed to delivering the most personalised, private, and dedicated service, including being available 24 hours a day.
I also see myself as a very good negotiator, I am very persistent in finding the most suitable yacht for my clients and can adapt to suit a variety of budgets.
OI: What aspects of your job would you say challenge you the most?
Personally, I don’t like saying no to any Client, so I love the fast-paced situations that require you to adapt and think quickly. For example, the challenge of finding a last-minute charter yacht, finding a replacement yacht and resolving special situations, or even taking care of the full organisation of a charter.
OI: What are some of your favourite activities outside of work?
Of course, I love spending time with my family. This along with my commitment to work means it can be hard to find the time for a particular hobby but when I do get some spare time, reading and exercise are some of my favourite activities to unwind.
OI: What is your favourite charter destination?
The majority of charter yachts I work with are in the West Mediterranean, particularly in Italy and the Balearics so these destinations do come to mind as some of my favourites.
Also coming from the South of France means the cruising grounds along the French Riviera will always be close to my heart.
OI: How has the yachting industry changed since you started your career?
When I started in the industry there were only five major companies, so clients knew exactly where to go for a reliable and quality service. The biggest change I have seen since then is the internet. It has enabled the industry to exponentially grow, and as a result many companies have entered the industry with no real experience.
Clients are now struggling to know where to go, so making sure you provide a quality service to back up the reputation of the company is more important than ever.
OI: What is your favourite yacht?
I was lucky enough to do charters on board SS DELPHINE. She was the last steam yacht to sail in her original configuration and the timeless beauty of a classic yacht like this was something I have always appreciated.
OI: What are you looking forward to in the next chapter of your career?
To travel and discover more unique and beautiful destinations to discuss with my clients. Two options on my bucket list are the Galapagos to swim with the sea turtles, and the Norwegian fjords to swim with the orcas.
I also love sharing my passion for this industry with young people and it is why I love training them to become the next best charter brokers.
Find out more about Judith Amselli or our experienced global Team.
