This January, we had the privilege of sitting down with Rolf Smith, the founder of Avia Yacht Partners 360 and a distinguished Sales Broker with Northrop & Johnson. With over 25 years of experience serving ultra-high-net-worth clients, Rolf has established himself as a seasoned professional in the luxury asset market. What sets him apart is his ability to handle both yacht and jet transactions for the same high-profile clients.
Becoming a yacht and jet broker wasn’t always part of Rolf’s plan. Growing up in Sweden in the 1970s with his mother and sister, his first passion was flying. At just 16 years old, Rolf enlisted in the Swedish Merchant Marine to save money for pilot training. He spent his early years crewing on cargo ships across North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. By 19, he had earned his pilot’s license. However, a global recession had weakened the aviation industry, forcing Rolf to explore alternative career paths.
It was during this moment that Rolf crossed paths with a Finnish entrepreneur who introduced him to sales. This role eventually led him to a unique opportunity of designing a Porsche and Ferrari showroom in Toronto which later transitioned him into selling luxury cars. Rolf later moved to Los Angeles, joining one of the world’s top dealerships and working with elite brands such as Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, Bentley, and Lamborghini. It was here that he began cultivating relationships with high-profile clients. This position also introduced him to Allen Paulson, founder and owner of Gulfstream Jets, who became a mentor and guided Rolf into the aviation industry. Rolf quickly expanded his expertise by working with the Swiss aviation company Privatair and establishing connections in key markets across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America.
As his career advanced, Rolf partnered with a father-and-son team in the UK to co-found Viation, a new aviation company with offices in London, Los Angeles, and Dubai. His success in the aviation industry naturally opened doors to the yacht market. After brokering his first yacht sale, Rolf began collaborating with yacht brokers in the U.S. and Monaco. Seven years ago, he obtained his own brokerage license and joined Northrop & Johnson, combining his expertise in jets and yachts to serve the world’s most discerning clientele.
Rolf Smith – Founder of Avia Yacht Partners 360
Rolf attributes his success to a well-structured system, a dedicated team, and a client-centered approach. Specializing in both yachts and jets, he offers tailored services designed to meet the unique needs of each client while managing expectations. His strong listening skills, honesty, and integrity have earned him a loyal base of repeat and referral clients.
Now based in Fort Lauderdale, Rolf primarily serves high-net-worth clients in South Florida while also working with a global clientele, with offices in Antibes, Monaco, Phuket, and beyond. Building and maintaining strong relationships is his top priority, and he takes pride in helping clients navigate the world of luxury travel. With deep expertise in both private aviation and luxury yachting, Rolf is uniquely qualified to facilitate seamless transactions by air and sea.
As a new member of SACC Florida, Rolf is excited to connect with the members and engage with the chambers business community. Learn more about him and Avia Yacht Partners 360 here!
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