Sara Gioanola: PR and Press office manager at Heesen Yachts
How did you get into the industry and when?
Since I was a child, I have always sailed during the holidays with my family and this is where I developed my passion for the sea. I started my career in yachting working as crew on a 52’ Baltic called Escondida. The Owner of this wonderful sailing yacht introduced me to Perini Navi, where I began my career in 2005 in the superyacht industry in marketing and communications.
What are your favourite parts of the yachting industry?
I truly love the sea and the shipbuilding element of the industry. I particularly enjoy the construction of a yacht at the shipyard. The aluminium workshop is my favourite shed, and I love the sea trials in the North Sea.
What do you do – and why do you enjoy working for a shipyard?
At Heesen, I am PR and Press Office Manager. I really enjoy welcoming press and guests to the shipyard and showing them around our beautiful facility. Anyone can see a yacht sailing, but just a few people have the privilege and honour to see one under construction. I feel when a yacht it is out of the water, it is even more impressive… I usually take our guests for a walk under the hull to take a photo. You feel very small!!
How does the yachting industry need to change?
I hope that one day (soon) more women will have key roles…
When are you most content – on the water or on land?
On the water, without a doubt!
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