JP Granstaff

My Present
 
Hello, my name is JP Granstaff, Compliance Manager at Fairport Global.
 
As Compliance Manager, I work directly with yacht owners, captains, and crew to oversee daily vessel operations, assist with new builds and shipyard projects, and manage yacht financials and budgeting. My favorite part of the job is building and maintaining strong relationships with industry professionals and clients, while ensuring every project receives a white-glove approach to service.
 
The multifaceted nature of yacht management presents challenges, particularly staying ahead of evolving maritime standards and regulations while juggling the expectations of owners, captains, and crew across global projects. What makes my position unique is the opportunity to apply over 20 years of yachting experience and tap into a vetted global network of service professionals, logistics, and supply companies.
 
My Past
 
I grew up sailing the waters of western Kentucky alongside my father and grandfather, which fostered a lifelong passion for boating. After college, I moved to Naples, Florida, and joined a small yacht management company specializing in Viking Yachts and Sport Fishers. This role led me to Fort Lauderdale, where I managed a startup yacht service company.
 
Eventually, I launched my own yacht management and service company, which I successfully operated before transitioning to a land-based managerial role at a ship’s chandlery. This position expanded my expertise in boat products, spares, and customer service. Leveraging this knowledge, I joined a multinational company supporting captains and senior crew worldwide, building a solid reputation that enabled me to return to large yacht management under IMO standards.
 
I also earned accreditations as a Designated Person Ashore (DPA), Company Security Officer (CSO), and Internal ISM/ISPS Auditor, which positioned me to excel in bespoke yacht management.
 
My Future
 
Professionally, I aim to further enhance my expertise in ISM and ISPS while continuing to expand my network within the yachting industry. Personally, I’m passionate about mentoring and encouraging emerging talent in the maritime field.
 
At Fairport Global, I plan to implement innovative project management strategies and contribute to the company’s growth by delivering exceptional service and expanding our fleet and client base.
 
My Motto
 
I live by two mottos: “Excellence is not a skill, it’s an attitude” and “Leave it better than you found it.”
 
My Outside-office Life
 
As a father of two teenage boys, I love instilling a sense of adventure and an appreciation for the outdoors in my family. My wife and I enjoy taking them on weekend adventures, whether exploring the Florida Keys by boat or Jeeping on Big Bear Island.

Fast Facts

Proudest accomplishment: Building my own marine service and management business from the ground up.
Hidden talents: Thanks to my country momma, I have a passion for cooking and am a self-proclaimed grill master. I also play guitar and drums and have a deep love for jazz music.
Bucket list destinations: Exploring the pristine waters of the Maldives and the incredible biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands.
Guilty pleasure: Baking—and, of course, eating—chocolate chip cookies.
Favorite podcast: On the Wind – its captivating stories and insights from sailors around the world continue to inspire my love for the sea.