December 2025 WATERLINE | 37 FROM EARLY DAYS TO INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP From the sheep farms of southern New Zealand to the docks of Whangãrei, Sharron’s path to marina management has been shaped by adventure and determination. After 11 years in Sweden working in a sail loft and export sales, she returned home and joined Whangãrei Marina as a part-time, front-desk working mum. Over two decades, both Sharron’s role and the marina grew together. Whangãrei has since become an internationally recognised 300-berth facility, with Sharron now leading its next chapter - the construction and berth sales of the 115-berth Okara Marina. WHY CERTIFICATION MATTERS “The CMO program came at the perfect time,” Sharron reflects. “I was stepping up within our organisation during the new marina build, and sponsorship from Bellingham Marine made the IMM possible, showing my board the value of investing in professional development.” The recognition and skills gained through the program pushed Sharron to join the executive of the New Zealand Marina Operators Association. "Becoming a Certified Marina Operator gave me credibility on a global scale." More than that, she values the opportunity the program provided to connect with experienced managers across Australasia and dedicate focused time to strategic thinking, something that’s often difficult when you’re knee-deep in marina mud dredging. BUILDING LIFELONG CONNECTIONS One of the most rewarding aspects of becoming a Certified Member, Sharron says, is the camaraderie that comes with it. “It gives me the confidence to call a colleague for advice when something new arises. There’s a strong sense of community in this industry. Everyone helps each other because we’re rarely direct competitors. Most of us have our own niches, locations, and vessel types. And it’s great when we get to catch up in person and just enjoy the company.” ADVICE TO THE NEXT GENERATION “Get involved in every aspect - from tying a line on the dock to understanding the financials. Take a genuine interest in people and always imagine yourself as the customer.” “Never underestimate the value of listening to your team.” OUTSIDE THE OFFICE When not managing marinas, Sharron enjoys weekend racing on 7-metre sport boats and travelling to visit family worldwide. WHAT I LOVE ABOUT MARINA LIFE “My amazing workmates, our loyal customers - and the chocolates they bring! Every season brings new challenges, and seeing our new pier afloat has been a truly satisfying moment.” SHARRON BECK CMO MARINA ASSISTANT MANAGER WHANGÃREI MARINA MARINA TRAINING INSTITUTE LOCATION: Whangãrei Marina, New Zealand YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY: 20+ CERTIFIED SINCE: 2020 STANDOUT ACHIEVEMENT: Leading the transformation of Whangãrei Marina and development of the new 115-berth Okara Marina. CAREER MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS Highlights of her career include: • Overseeing Whangãrei Marina’s upgrade and expansion. • Driving the Okara Marina project from concept to construction. • Founding member of the South Pacific Sailing Network (SPSN), connecting marinas and cruising destinations across the region. • Supporting small island nations to enhance their marina facilities and attract more sailors.
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