29 November 2018
Ben Osborne comes on board 37South having acquired a shareholding in the company from co-founder Allan Jouning.
Jouning, who set up the company with Phil Tomlinson in 1988, retires his directorship to take a step back and focus on the client side of the business in yacht sales and charter, while Osborne will lead the company in its continued growth.
“I am thrilled to be joining the 37South family,” says Osborne. “Run successfully by the same directors for the past 30 years, 37South is built on values that resonate with me as much as they do with its clients: respect, long-lasting relationships, and a dedication to customer service, all while promoting this incredible part of the world we are lucky to call home.”
A native New Zealander, Osborne will work closely alongside director and co-founder Tomlinson to continue to grow the company in the South Pacific, Asia and beyond, solidifying its reputation for professional, personal service as a full service superyacht brokerage and support provider.
“As they say, time and tide wait for no person,” says Tomlinson. “After an amazing 35-year partnership with Allan, we are very fortunate to welcome Ben on board. He’s bursting with energy, backed up by industry experience and modern day business skills. I am excited to work alongside Ben, to grow 37South and see it move successfully into its position as a next generation company.”
Jouning’s shift will not only enable him to focus more time on nurturing and growing the company’s network of long-standing client relationships, but also spend time on board his Lagoon 500 with his family, including his new grandchild. “Phil and I pioneered the yacht support business in the South Pacific,” says Jouning.
“It is wonderful to know that I am passing our legacy on to someone whose energy comes with extraordinary knowledge and passion for the yachting industry.”
37South’s services cover sales, charter and all aspects of large yacht shore support including provisioning, crew placement and project management for refits and new builds.
“The growth that is being seen in the South Pacific and Asian charter market is really exciting,” says Osborne. “The way owners use their yachts seems to be moving towards more adventurous cruising, and as a result I’m sure the Asia Pacific will only see the number of large yachts continue to rise in the next few years. As regional economies develop and improvements in supporting infrastructure are made, we are in a strong position to help owners have the perfect yachting experience – whether that be through charter, purchase or seamless support services. I am looking forward to being part of the next evolution with 37South.”