Direne Ras
Manager , Business Control and Pricing , Volvo Penta North America
What first drew you to the marine industry ? I believe that the marine industry chose me . My previous work experience was within other areas of the Volvo Group , predominantly in the heavy-duty trucks and parts distribution business areas . I pursued a career within the United States during 2019 , and within three months of my search I was offered the opportunity to relocate and work at Volvo Penta North America . Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career ? I have been blessed with fantastic leaders and mentors throughout my career . One of my previous managers taught me the value of being a member of a high-performing team , with a vision and common goal that inspires us . This has become my philosophy and approach to all work-related actions . How do you hope to inspire others in the marine industry ? I aspire to represent the finance community within the marine industry . Our contributions are crucial for the long-term success of any organization . Never underestimate the value of employees who work behind the scenes . Being acutely aware of numbers is such an integral part of moving boating products , technology , and innovations forward .
How do you set goals for yourself and set yourself up for success ? For me , the key is to create a plan with specific milestone required to accomplish a larger goal . My daily operations are driven by deadlines ― being prepared ahead of time , limits the risk of rushed work , and leaves ample time for data analytics and authentication . Who was your hero as a child ? My dad ― I am the youngest of four kids and I probably got away with more than any of my other siblings . I have fond memories of him picking me up early from kindergarten to watch our favorite movie , The Jungle Book .
Whitney Vishey
Director of Marketing & Communications , Tiara Yachts
What was your first job ? In middle school , I spent a couple summers working at a driving range and mini golf course cleaning , emptying trashes , helping with the landscape and replacing tees in each bay . I learned at a young age that even the smallest detail matters and we all play a role in the customer experience .
As a young professional , what are the biggest challenges you ’ ve faced in the marine industry and how did you overcome them ? Not only did I come into the marine industry extremely green and not knowing much about boats and boating , as a woman , the corporate ladder can be significantly challenging to climb . I have been so fortunate to have been surrounded by amazing people throughout my career who have being willing to teach and guide me . As a person who ’ s not afraid of hard work , when given opportunities to try something new , regardless of the task , I happily said yes . I ’ m certain this has been instrumental in how I ’ ve been able to propel myself forward in my career . How do you hope to inspire others in the marine industry ? I came into the marine industry with a service marketing background not knowing much about boating . I am proof that hard work , dedication , an open mind and willingness to learn can afford amazing opportunities in this industry . As one of the largest industries in the U . S ., there is so much room for a variety of talents and skillsets . It is important to me to encourage other woman to pursue careers in the marine industry as well . I take great pride in knowing that I am part of the growing group of women in this field and that collectively our accomplishments will provide space for future generations to feel empowered to share their talents . Who was your hero as a child ? I wouldn ’ t say that I have one hero in-particular , but I am fortunate my parents were very present in my life growing up , encouraging and guiding me . I ’ m very close with them to this day and am lucky we get to regularly spend quite a bit of time together . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? The marine industry is an exciting , fast-paced adventure filled with amazing people to learn from . The opportunities are vast , and every facet of business is needed to ensure organizations continue to thrive . I hope young professionals will say yes to getting involved when they have the chance , even if it doesn ’ t seem like it is something in their lane . There ’ s a lot to learn in this industry and equally as many great people to learn from .
36 march 2023 www . boatingindustry . com