I am incredibly honoured and delighted to have been nominated for this prestigious industry award.
Coming from a small village in Yorkshire, England, known for its honesty and hardworking can-do attitude, I am grateful to work in a job that I love so dearly. My journey into yachting began with a chance encounter, and I’ve never looked back since.
As I turn forty later this month, and while some may feel that age can work against you in this industry, I feel the opposite. I love working with my team in their twenties.
Growing up in a supportive family with the mindset of “you can do anything you want to if you just put your mind to it” has been a great advantage, even when entering the yachting industry in my thirties!
Before yachting, I gained a first-class fashion degree from the London College of Fashion, leading to a career in fashion for over five years. An opportunity later arose to run an interior design business with my brother. During this time, I also played polo, combining my love for fashion and styling with the experience of running my own business, along with my dedication of owning and breeding horses and being a team player, has shaped me into the Chief Stewardess that I am today. I can easily dress and style my owners for an event, alter a dress, drive a tender ashore, or chat with guests about my past life playing in polo tournaments.
I pride myself on being a kind, loyal, and considerate team leader, mentoring my team. Seeing their excitement during our first boss trip, witnessing them thrive, flourish, and succeed in their careers brings me immense gratification. Their support and hard work are integral to my recognition for this award.
Outside of yachting, I adore spending time with my family and friends, travelling, and meeting new people. I have a passion for running, having competed in three marathons, with plans to train for a fourth when time allows.
In summary, I am so appreciative to all the people I have crossed paths with, some of whom will be lifelong friends and to my current and previous crews for allowing me to learn continuously from. Huge thanks go to my owners over the years, to whom I strive to give the best possible experience during their time onboard as they allow me to reap the rewards of the wonderful opportunities and life adventures, for which I am so grateful.
Looking ahead, I know that I will reflect on this time in the yachting industry as one of the best periods of my life and one that I am not ready to leave anytime soon!
