A new career development framework for yacht brokers has launched at the Southampton International Boat Show, aiming to formalise standards, boost credibility, and improve long-term prospects in the brokerage sector. The Certified Professional Broker (CPB) career pathway, developed through a strategic alliance between the British Marine Boat Retailers & Brokers Association (BRBA) and the Association of Brokers and Yacht Agents (ABYA), introduces structured training, certification, and continuous professional development for both new and experienced professionals.
“This initiative delivers the structured progression and professional recognition that brokers have been asking for,” says Alastair Walton, chair of BRBA. “It raises standards and strengthens the reputation of brokerage both here in the UK and globally.”
The pathway is said to offer a formalised career route, designed to support brokers from entry-level to experienced professionals. Starting with a two-day Practical Yacht Broker Course and exam, participants then progress through a 12–18 month programme involving online learning, portfolio submission, and final assessment. Topics include regulatory compliance, digital marketing, VAT, brokerage law, and customer due diligence.
Importantly, the pathway includes an annual programme of Continuous Professional Development to ensure brokers stay up to date with legal, regulatory, and market changes. A fast-track option is also available for those with significant industry experience.
According to Chris Ibbotson, chair of ABYA, the new pathway addresses a longstanding gap in professional development: “Brokers are at the very heart of the leisure marine industry, and with this new pathway we are giving them the tools, training, and credibility to excel at every stage of their careers.”
The launch follows the introduction of the joint BRBA/ABYA Sales Purchase Agreement earlier this year. Both initiatives reflect BRBA and ABYA’s strategic alliance which was formalised at last year’s show. Together, the organisations aim to drive up industry standards and create a more professional and trusted environment for brokers and clients alike.
The CPB certification is also internationally recognised, providing wider opportunities for UK brokers operating in global markets.
Information about the yacht brokers’ course can be found on ABYA’s website.
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