My Present Hello! My name is Mateo Betancurth, your Charter Marketing Manager with Northrop & Johnson.
In my role, I focus on marketing and managing charter vessels while working to generate revenue for owners. My favorite part of the job is having the pleasure of meeting exemplary people and learning from my peers.
This position is unique because of the multi-faceted approach it requires. We must think creatively to market the boats, commercially to negotiate the best deals, and politically to maintain harmony in all our transactions.
My Past I was born in the mountainous region of Colombia, far from the tropical coasts most people imagine. I grew up surrounded by coffee farms and an active volcano, which we often visited. At age seven, my family relocated to South Florida during a particularly turbulent time in Colombia’s history, and I’ve considered it home ever since.
Before joining the yachting world, I worked as a banker—a structured and analytical career that ultimately led me to a turning point. After completing the Camino de Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage in Spain, I decided to change direction and pursue a career more aligned with my passions, transitioning into real estate before ultimately finding my place in yachting.
With my mother having worked in the yachting industry for over two decades, it’s always been part of my world. I began at another brokerage, learning the business from the ground up before progressing into management.
After several years with different brokerages, the opportunity finally arose to join Northrop & Johnson—the one company I had always aspired to work for if I ever left my previous employer.
I’ve always been driven by adventure, travel, and exploration. With a curious mind and a free spirit, yachting naturally became the perfect home for both.
My Future My vision is to help grow the N&J Charter Management Department into the strongest and most respected in the industry—a name that immediately comes to mind when someone thinks of world-class charter management.
On a broader level, my personal goal is more existential: I hope to contribute, in whatever way I can, to the reduction of human suffering and the spread of love, understanding, and happiness among those around me.
In the short term, I aim to fully integrate into N&J’s culture and systems, collaborating closely with the team to introduce fresh, effective strategies that elevate our clients’ experience and success.
My Motto Premeditatio Malorum – Mentally prepare for obstacles so they cannot disturb your peace.
My Outside-Office Life Outside the office, I’m passionate about reading—particularly history, science, and theology—and I prioritize maintaining a balanced, healthy lifestyle. I enjoy cooking my own meals, practicing yoga, and staying active through sports.
Fast Facts I occasionally surprise karaoke crowds by singing opera and love watching their reactions when I hit the high notes. Twice a year, I fast for six days, drinking only water as a mental and physical reset. I’ve long dreamed of becoming a Buddhist monk, at least for a year, to explore life through a more contemplative lens.
