Hello, my name is Ugur Sahin, and I am a Sales Broker at Northrop & Johnson. My journey in the boating industry began in 2007 when I became the Sales and Marketing Director at the Turkish distributor for Fairline and Regal Boats. Shortly after joining, we expanded to include the distributorships of Prestige Yachts, Jeanneau Motorboats, Numarine, and Azimut. While it’s easy to summarize in one sentence, it was truly a marathon—and one that I’m proud to have run. Leading a multi-brand organization was both a challenge and a privilege.
After 15 years in management, I embraced a new challenge in direct sales. I’ve closed many deals I’m proud of, which led me to Numarine. There, I combined roles as both Sales Manager and Project Manager, deepening my knowledge of production processes and boat building.
Before entering the marine industry, I held management roles in sales and planning at the DaimlerChrysler Group and the Volkswagen Group. These were invaluable experiences, but my heart was always with the sea—a passion rooted in a family full of naval officers. That love carried into my youth, where I became a licensed windsurfer.
As a Sales Broker at Northrop & Johnson, I deliver a boutique, personalized experience to boat owners and buyers alike. From listing yachts that meet N&J’s high standards to ensuring every detail of a deal runs smoothly, I oversee the full journey from introduction to closing.
What I enjoy most is working in beautiful coastal locations, connecting with remarkable people, and collaborating with some of the best in the business. This role also keeps me sharp—it challenges me to stay curious and keep learning.
What makes it all feel so natural is how it brings together my background and passions. My Economics degree helps with complex negotiations, my time in the automotive world sharpened my understanding of client needs, and my lifelong love for the sea makes this more than just a job—it feels like where I’m meant to be.
My Past
I was born in Istanbul, a city straddling continents and divided by the sea. My family owned one of the few sailing boats at the time, and some of my fondest childhood memories involve cooking mussels on canisters, catching shrimp, and staging jellyfish battles with my older brother.
Even university life meant daily ferry rides across the Bosphorus, reinforcing my connection to the water. I always dreamed of a job in boating until one day a friend sent me a job ad featuring three beautiful Fairlines. I was captivated. Soon after, I found myself test cruising a Regal 2550 off the coast of St. Raphael. While others were commuting to offices, I was cruising the Côte d’Azur—plus, I was getting paid for it.
My Future
What excites me most about the yachting industry is the continuous journey of learning. I believe Northrop & Johnson will expand my horizons with its international team, diverse brands, thrilling projects, and proximity to Monaco—the playground of boating enthusiasts.
Previously, I represented single brands. Now, I have the freedom to explore and compare multiple brands in depth, allowing me to serve clients as a true consultant and trusted advisor.
In the next two years, my goal is to become one of the top-performing brokers at N&J.
My Mottos
I’m a fan of mottos—here are two that guide me:
“What truly matters is the journey itself.” (Personal life)
"Acta non verba” – “Actions, not words.” (Professional life)
Life Beyond the Office
A quote from one of my favorite films, Mediterraneo, resonates with me deeply: "Life is not enough. One life is not enough for me. There are not enough days, too many things to do, too many ideas. Every sunset upsets me because another day has gone by."
Like Sergeant Nicola Lorusso, I strive to do it all—not perfectly, but passionately. I play the tenor saxophone, ride horses, build things with wood, roller skate with my twin daughters, bike, swim, and play basketball. Lately, I’ve been reconnecting with my old love: windsurfing, with a dear veteran friend.
Most of all, I treasure simple moments spent with family and friends—those are the ones that matter most.
Fast Facts
Proudest Accomplishments: Securing distributorships for Prestige, Azimut, and Numarine—and closing the first sales for Azimut and Numarine
Bucket List Destination: Antigua and its surrounding islands, inspired by Black Sails, Assassin’s Creed: Black Flag, and countless hours of online research
Favorite Podcast: BBC Sounds—originally to improve my English, now because I love learning about the world. I can talk for hours about Brexit and the British economy
