Key Ocean Independence Team Updates in 2021

Despite the global upheaval in 2020, Ocean Independence quickly adapted to the changing market conditions, comfortably outperforming the overall yacht sales market and successfully handling challenges in yacht charter and management. To help continue the growth of business goals into 2021 and beyond, several key team member updates have taken place within the company. These team members are set to continue our philosophy of being an advice driven yacht brokerage business working to the highest possible standards and delivering the ultimate yachting experience. 

Lukas Stratmann returns to Ocean Independence after a period of time working in the yacht sales department at Abeking and Rasmussen. This has served to greatly strengthen his knowledge as a large yacht consultant, particularly specialising in new build and refit construction. His continued high degree of success in yacht sales, supported by a solid knowledge of efficient management, financial services and marine engineering make him an outstanding all-rounder. Lukas started his career as a superyacht captain, cruising extensively across the globe. Once shore-based, he has used this experience and become renowned in the industry for his advice-driven and meticulous approach, together with respected maritime acumen. Based between Düsseldorf and Palma, Lukas will take a leading role in yacht sales in the German speaking market.

Helene Delstanche takes up the role as Charter Fleet Manager, providing the primary point of contact for the busy charter management team. Having amassed a wealth of experience in charter management at a senior level at Burgess for more than a decade, Helene brings valuable business acumen, a strong network of global contacts and excellent interpersonal skills. Principally working alongside Ocean Independence Sales Director, Toby Maclaurin, Helene will be involved in contractual and ethical queries whilst further developing streamlined business procedures, offering exemplary customer service and collaborating with industry-wide yacht brokers. Having gained a reputation for integrity and professionalism, and as a prior member of the MYBA committee safeguarding competence of new members, her highly effective work ethic will be a vital asset to the team.

Joining the Sussex, UK office is Senior Charter Broker Hanneke Maljaars. Hanneke has amassed a wealth of knowledge from a long career in the yachting industry, including as Brokerage Manager at Burgess yachts. She was subsequently involved in setting up the company’s OceanStyle division, where she held the position of Global Sales and Marketing executive, as well as a Charter Broker under MYBA. After a 10-year break during which time she had a son, built up an online retail business, and accumulated a loyal client database of UHNWI’s as Sales Director of a luxury ski chalet company, Hanneke is now excited to bring her expertise to the Ocean Independence team.

Mike Edwardson also joins the Ocean Independence Sussex office, as Publisher. Well known throughout the superyacht industry as former Editor at Large of the popular yachting publication SuperYachtWorld, Mike brings his enthusiasm, photojournalism and a multifaceted skill set to the company. Working within the global marketing team, he will contribute significantly to content production and in-house publication. 

After a year that saw a 22% growth in yacht sales over 24m for the Ocean Independence team, Sales Manager, Claudio Arpino, will expand his role to become more management-based and broker-facing during 2021. An integral part of the Ocean Independence team since 2005, Claudio has contributed to many years of considerable company growth, principally developing and adapting a customized CRM system, uniquely tailored to fit our specific industry requirements. He has additionally supervised a wide range of yacht finance ventures and comprehensive group sales projects. With this insight and expertise, Claudio is now refining his focus in his capacity as Sales Manager to drive and develop the success of the busy yacht sales department, enhancing their communication, direction and achievement. Claudio will additionally look to integrate new and experienced brokers into the business to grow this continuingly developing division.  

With an exceptional closing quarter for yacht sales in 2020, Ocean Independence lead the way into the coming year with a positive and optimistic approach. Continuing to achieve success and fulfilment for clients around the world, Ocean Independence are looking to welcome experienced sales and charter brokers to join the team. Please contact us or email [email protected].