Rocco Finocchiaro to head Merle Wood's European operation

Merle Wood and Associates has appointed longtime yacht captain and yacht consultant Rocco Finocchiaro as its European representative. Finocchiaro, based in Monaco, will take up his post immediately.

Following the announcement of his appointment, Finnochiaro spoke exclusively to SuperyachtNews.com about establishing a permanent Merle Wood branch in superyachting’s epicentre.

“We have started now, in my [existing] office but we are looking for another office so that we can be better established in Monaco. At the moment I am working to let people know that Merle Wood is moving into Europe and we are preparing for the Monaco Yacht Show.”

Despite being one of the industry’s more recognisable brokerage houses, this is Merle Wood’s first formal establishment in Europe. And Finocchiaro says it is the culmination of a long-term strategy. “I’m trying to add new energy on this side of the world with my knowledge and contacts.”

“We are delighted to welcome Rocco to our sales team. We are confident that with his broad background of 25 years in yachting, Rocco will be a true asset to our company”, company founder Merle A. Wood said.

He met Wood himself through mutual client interest in Sea Force One, and it was then that the idea was proposed to Finocchiaro. And the company’s reputation, and Wood’s continued prominence within day-to-day operations, constituted an extremely appealing opportunity for him.

“[The recipe for success] is having someone who is very successful in a part of the world where people are spending money, and that’s what Merle is.

“I've been captain for an owner from Long Beach so I understand the American mentality and I really like their attitude; they are very clear – black and white. They are confident and they don’t give up. If there is a problem they try to find a solution, rather than giving up. It’s a nice philosophical approach.”

In many ways, the upcoming Monaco Yacht Show will represent Finocchiaro’s formal introduction to the industry under the ‘Merle Wood Europe’ banner. He will be incorporated into the Merle Wood exhibition space