Boatbuilding News : The Podcast

EP49. Leading the Industry! Richard Selby - CEO, British Superyacht

Hollie Season 1 Episode 49

In this episode, host Hollie sits down with Richard Selby, the dynamic CEO of British Superyacht.

Richard shares the inspiring journey of founding British Superyacht, a sector membership organisation dedicated to superyacht professionals and businesses across the British Isles, including the Isle of Man and Channel Islands. Launched just last September, British Superyacht has been "growing from strength to strength", listening to the sector's needs and facilitating crucial support.

Discover how British Superyacht is filling a vital role by fostering networking and collaboration, helping members connect and innovate, even highlighting a "David and Goliath scenario" where they facilitated a crucial component connection for a product launch. Richard discusses the initial challenges of "getting the noise out there" and creating active platforms like their website and social media.

Learn about their highly successful British Superyacht Soirees, monthly relaxed networking events held in various locations like London, Southampton, Poole, and Plymouth, as well as specialised "Tech Talk" and business support events. Explore their unique selling proposition of "bringing together the quality and excellence" of British businesses and expanding their reach through partnerships with organisations like Superyacht Australia, US Superyacht, and the International Superyacht Society.

Richard emphasises that membership is a two-way street: "You will get out of it what you put in". He also highlights the invaluable role of their British Superyacht ambassadors, a team of industry specialists who provide guidance and support to members, from large global companies to sole traders.

Looking ahead, Richard envisions British Superyacht becoming "the go-to membership organisation for professionals", driven by the ethos that "we're stronger together". He reflects on the biggest challenge of starting "from scratch" financially, making their rapid growth and positive member feedback even more humbling. 

Richard concludes by describing British Superyacht in three powerful words: "Leading the industry".