Trainee Yacht Broker

Location: Berthon International Head Office, Lymington
Reports to: Managing Director

This is a fantastic opportunity for a sailing and motor yacht enthusiast looking for a career in yacht brokerage.

Overview of the Role

Full time trainee position, operating from the heart of one of the UK’s most active yachting centres, the successful candidate will work alongside and support experienced brokers to develop the skills necessary to successfully manage client relationships, obtain in-depth product knowledge, and sales capability. In addition, the role encompasses primary responsibility for managing and facilitating the brokerage function for the Berthon Essential portfolio which consists of both motor and sail boats offered for sale, at circa £100k and below.

This position is suited to an individual with strong yachting experience who is looking to train as a yacht broker while also having the opportunity to grow within a well established, internationally connected brokerage house. Berthon has offices in Spain, Sweden and the USA with its Headquarters in Lymington, UK.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with and progressively manage the Berthon Essential listings and any associated viewings or documentation as part of the sales process for yachts based in Lymington, across the UK and internationally, via our other offices, as necessary.
• Maintain contact between owners and prospective buyers, as necessary and with the support and agreement of fellow brokers. Assist with viewings, inspections, and sea trials from Lymington or elsewhere, as required.
• Support negotiations and sales processes through to contract completion and handover and including, title, flag, VAT, RCD and KYC and other aspects of the sales process, as necessary.
• Work with the Berthon Marketing Team to create high quality marketing materials including sales particulars.
• Develop a comprehensive knowledge of the segment of the market in which Berthon Essential operates as well as building awareness of overall market conditions of the Berthon marketplace.
• Understand and adhere to Berthon’s brokerage procedures, contracts, and compliance requirements.

Listings & Marketing

• Work closely with the marketing team on yacht presentation, photography, and written descriptions, ensuring listings are accurate, professional, and kept up to date across all platforms.
• Regularly check progress of Berthon Essential listings and work with fellow brokers to drive sales and positive outcomes for all clients.

Owner & Buyer Relationships

• Carry out detailed KYC on vendors and potential buyers.
• Build and maintain strong, long term relationships with yacht owners and purchasers.
• Confidently assist with moving yachts, sea trials, and viewings.
• Liaise with Berthon Boat Co, or the yard where the yacht is located regarding preparation, lift outs, and inspections, where required.
• Develop the skills to provide professional advice on pricing, presentation, and market positioning.

Office & Team

• Work as part of the Lymington office team, contributing to the smooth day to day running of the Sales Group.
• Offer support to brokers for day-to-day tasks such as affixing ‘For Sale’ signs, preparing documents and preparation for viewings or sea trials.
• Passionate about sailing and/or motor yachts and the associated lifestyle.
• Practical experience and confident yacht handling ability.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• A keen focus on client relationship management – maintaining relationships with existing clients as well as drive to develop new ones.
• Highly organised, professional, and detail oriented.
• Proactive, motivated, and keen to learn and develop within the Berthon Sales Group.
• Comfortable working in our busy, collaborative HQ environment.