In many capacities, Bluewater Sales Director Jud Black has been serving customers and his peers along the Lower Chesapeake since the 1980s. Operating outside of the limelight, but as an obvious cornerstone in Bluewater’s sales operations, his quiet manner and unflappable demeanor along with unmatched product knowledge have endeared him to hundreds of customers and team members alike. EXCEPTIONAL CHARACTER Everyone that has met Jud will tell you the same thing: he’s exceptionally quiet and humble, which is a stark contrast in an industry teeming with many vibrant and boisterous characters up and down the docks. How does he manage to always be the chillest person in the room? Jud’s wife, Ann, explains it matter-of-factly, “He really is just one of those rare, good guys that listens more than he talks.” Prioritizing listening to customers, team members and employees has been a winning formula for him over the last five decades in the marine business, and throughout his many service and sales roles while working his way to partner and executive at Bluewater Yacht Sales. Like any great supporting cast member, Jud has never sought the spotlight but is a foundational piece of the ensemble cast of Bluewater’s successful sales teams over the years. When he first came to work for Bluewater Yacht Sales’ founder, Chris Hall III, he had previously been with OMC and Johnson Outboards and then Boston Whaler as a factory sales representative. “Jud has been successful in all his marine industry positions because of his immense knowledge and tireless efforts,” Chris explains. He hired Jud in the mid-80s to manage their new subsidiary, Boater’s World, a dealership for Mako, Boston Whaler, Evinrude, Zodiac and other premier small boat brands. “Jud is the definition of a professional who is selfless, humble and honestly cares about his customers and coworkers more than himself,” says business partner and friend Randy Ramsey. “I don’t know many people who fit that description.” Despite his reserve and humility, Jud has been decorated with countless awards and accomplishments, including many sales achievements from Bluewater, Regulator, Viking and other brands he’s represented over the years. Working for those top tier companies has brought him “To be like the rock that the waves keep crashing over. It stands unmoved and the raging of the sea falls still around it.” —Marcus Aurelius, Meditations LIKE A ROCK 26 BLUEWATER
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