Three decades at Praxis Yachts: Nadine Mroch on building trusted yacht ownership relationships
Marking 30 years with Praxis Yacht Services, Nadine Mroch reflects on a career shaped by trusted relationships, industry change and a deep understanding of yacht ownership. As an Ownership Manager in our Yacht Services team, Nadine has supported private and commercial clients across every stage of the ownership lifecycle - an experience that continues to inform how she delivers long-term value to clients today.
What first drew you to this specialist area?
After school, I studied office work and business at college. In job hunting, I applied widely, leading to interviews including one for a company secretary position in marine and aviation payroll. I accepted the role and worked there while studying for a BTEC diploma one day a week.
After eight years, I sought a new challenge in the firm's yacht department. Over the course of 11 years, I gained in-depth knowledge of yacht ownership and worked with diverse clients. I joined Sarnia Yachts (later Praxis) in December 1995. Ironically, although I love yachts, I suffer from severe seasickness, so I avoid sea travel.
What have been some of the most significant career highlights?
I have been fortunate to have worked with some inspiring colleagues over the years, many whom are still personal friends. A company and the teams you are part of can have a huge impact on your own personal progression, and as well as the yachting industry, has no doubt been one of the reasons why I am celebrating this 30-year work anniversary.
Throughout my career, I have been involved in numerous yacht transactions, encompassing both private and commercial vessels including sales, acquisitions, refit projects, chartering activities, crew employment and insurance. This has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the operational, technical, and commercial aspects of the yachting industry.
Attending the yacht shows and having the chance to be onboard some of the yachts we manage (preferably moored!) really puts everything into perspective. Meeting individuals in the industry and sharing work experiences is always a rewarding experience.
In what ways has the role of a yacht ownership manager evolved over the past three decades, and which core elements of the role have remained unchanged?
A lot has changed in recent years, particularly in the areas of compliance, regulation, risk and procedures. These developments have significantly enhanced the way we operate within the yachting industry. For clients, it means greater protection, stronger governance, and a more structured approach to ownership. Keeping up to date has always been an integral part of how we ensure things run smoothly and give our clients confidence for the long term.
What are the key factors in building and maintaining long-term relationships with yacht-owning clients and their advisers?
Knowing your clients and their advisers is essential, not just on paper but in practice. Understanding their needs, expectations, and preferred working style enables you to deliver the right level of support consistently. It’s about setting expectations: being clear, dependable and always delivering to a high standard. Regular communication is key. It builds trust, keeps everyone aligned and helps avoid surprises. Ultimately, it's this steady and reliable approach that clients value most.
How have you seen the yacht services team and its offering develop since the acquisition?
Our yacht ownership service has become more robust and integrated with Praxis’ existing private wealth capabilities, giving clients access to broader in-house expertise across a wider range of services. We’ve also expanded our team and management and crew services, introducing a Full ISM Safety Management System, a new employment & payroll services package and new commercial partnerships that align with clients’ long-term ownership and operational goals.
Joint marketing opportunities, such as attending global yacht shows alongside private wealth colleagues provide a great opportunity for our clients to meet the wider team.
Looking ahead, what advice would you offer to someone entering the yacht services industry today?
Research and talk with industry insiders. There are great career prospects for those willing to put in the hard work. It is a dynamic and exciting industry to be a part of, and no two days are ever the same.
For those willing to invest in relationships and continuous learning, it’s an industry – and a career – that can be just as rewarding decades on.
If you would like to learn more about our approach, please visit our yacht services page, or contact Nadine via the link below.
Please note that this article is intended to provide a general overview of the matters to which it relates. It is not intended as professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. Any engagement in respect of our professional services is subject to our standard terms and conditions of business and the provision of all necessary due diligence. © Praxis 2025
