The Beaulieu River team is delighted that one of its members has been awarded Towergate’s Marina Employee of the Year 2022, as part of The Yacht Harbour Association’s Marina of the Year Awards, with Marina Assistant John Selman receiving the accolade for his outstanding service to Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour customers.
“Outstanding,” “will go the extra mile for customers,” “a naturally helpful guy,” “always happy” and “nothing is too much trouble and he does it with a smile,” are amongst the glowing customer comments for John that were received by the award judges, resulting in him being selected from employees at more than 160 Gold Anchor accredited marinas around the world.
While customers praised the entire Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour team for their friendliness and efficiency, John stood out as a shining example of a customer-focused employee dedicated to the smooth running of the marina.
At the Southampton Boat Show, John was presented with his award by The Yacht Harbour Association General Manager, Jon White, Chair, Colin Watts and Towergate Insurance’s Daniel Beorby.
John said: “I am immensely proud to have received this award, as I’m always striving to be as helpful as possible, to help our customers to get the most out of their time on the Beaulieu River. It’s really important to me to give sailors and visitors the best possible experience I can. I always aim to work with a smile!
“I love working with people and boats, having been in the marine industry for 40 years, working for many boat builders and publications before joining the Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour team. The Beaulieu River is a special place to work, thanks not only to its beauty, but also how friendly everybody is.”
Beaulieu River Harbour Master Wendy Stowe said: “John Selman has been an employee of the Beaulieu Estate since 2009, following a fast-paced sales and marketing career in the boating media, before moving to the Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour team in 2020. With his passion and depth of knowledge from working in the boating industry, he fitted straight in with the team and the customers.
“John is always prepared to take on any job with a smile and is happy to help anyone out, be it a team member or customer. He can often be found on the visitors’ pontoon welcoming and helping new arrivals.
“What makes John stand out is that he’ll make time for anybody and everybody, and enjoys nothing more than talking about his passions of boats, bikes and classic cars. The organisation is very lucky to have him on the team, and is grateful for all of the enthusiasm and hard work he brings to the river.”
The Yacht Harbour Association General Manager Jon White said: “These awards are voted for by berth holders and celebrate the very best marinas, both in the UK and overseas, and provide a perfect opportunity to recognise those marinas that go above and beyond, offering outstanding quality and service to their berth holders and visitors.”
John’s award comes just as Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour has been nominated for another prestigious award, having been shortlisted for Marina of the Year in the British Yachting Awards 2022.
To vote for Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour in the upcoming British Yachting Awards 2022, visit britishyachtingawards.com.
The Beaulieu River is one of the few privately owned rivers in the world and the custodianship of the Montagu family has protected it for over four centuries. The yacht harbour has a long track record of giving a personal and outstanding service to its customers.
As the jewel of the Solent at the gateway to the New Forest, it offers full marina services, an open policy boatyard and chandlery and a range of benefits. A restaurant, bar and tea shop are on the doorstep at the 18th century shipbuilding village of Buckler’s Hard, with its museum. For moorings and berths see www.beaulieuriver.co.uk, email harbour.office@beaulieu.co.uk or call 01590 616200.
