Meet The Team
Katie Darby
Founder & MD - Executive Search
Katie is the driving force behind The Reiya Group, combining her passion for excellence with an exceptional reputation in the marketplace. Drawing on invaluable life experiences, including working closely with Captains and Heads of Departments on some of the largest yachts in the world, as well as managing recruitment for family offices serving some of the world’s wealthiest individuals, Katie has developed a deep understanding of the importance of cultural fit and delivering exceptional standards.
Known for her infectious enthusiasm, energy and exceptional attention to detail, she is widely respected for her dedication to going above and beyond, consistently delivering on her promises.
Under Katie’s leadership, The Reiya Group has established itself as a trusted recruitment partner to some of the world’s most exclusive individuals, families and organisations, recognised for its personalised approach, discretion and dedication to building lasting relationships
Susan Brown
Talent & Operations Manager
With a background in recruitment, compliance and operations, Susan plays a key role in the continued growth of Reiya Group. Having built her recruitment experience within the specialist maritime and yachting sector, she brings a strong understanding of both people and process to her role.
At Reiya, Susan oversees operations, compliance, onboarding and systems, while supporting recruitment and driving the development of The Reiya Standard and Reiya Group’s Precision Alignment Method. She also plays an integral role in the Reiya Principal Programme, helping to shape the operational framework behind its delivery.
Highly organised and detail-focused, Susan is instrumental in building the strong foundations, processes and systems that enable the wider team to perform at their best, while ensuring the business consistently upholds Reiya’s commitment to professionalism, discretion and exceptional service.
Kenia Yates
Reiya Principal - Yacht Recruitment
Kenia brings the best of both worlds to yacht recruitment, combining a strong recruitment background with six years of first-hand experience aboard private and charter yachts ranging from 50–150m.
Based on the South Coast of England, her yachting career took her around the world, from expedition charters in Antarctica to shipyard periods in Bremen, giving her a genuine understanding of the different cultures, expectations and dynamics onboard.
During her first three years in recruitment, Kenia specialised in deck placements, supporting candidates from green deckhands to experienced Chief Officers across a diverse portfolio of yachts worldwide. Her onboard experience also gives her a broader understanding of every department and allows her to recognise the distinct qualities required for someone to genuinely thrive on board and the importance of creating a cohesive team.
Relationship-led in her approach, Kenia takes the time to understand both her clients and candidates. Her goal has always been to build the kind of trust where returning clients know she understands their operation.
As a Reiya Principal, she combines honest advice, industry knowledge and a genuine passion for people to build trusted relationships, successful crew partnerships and long-term opportunities.
Zoe Woodford
Reiya Principal - Yacht Recruitment
Zoe brings extensive luxury yachting experience to specialist recruitment, combining firsthand industry knowledge with a highly personal approach. Having held senior interior and Chief Stewardess roles across private and charter yachts, she understands the exceptional standards, discretion and interpersonal skills required onboard.
Her experience spans team leadership, recruitment, training, guest relations and high-end service, working closely with owners, captains, HODs and crew. Having experienced demanding schedules, shared living environments and high-pressure situations, she understands the expectations, personalities and dynamics of yacht life.
Combined with previous recruitment experience, Zoe brings insight from both sides of the hiring process, including the requirements of rotational positions, private and charter programmes and high-service environments where presentation, emotional intelligence and discretion are essential.
Relationship-led in her approach, Zoe values honesty, trust and clear communication, ensuring candidates feel supported and clients feel understood. She prioritises quality over quantity, looking beyond qualifications to consider personality, values, working style and crew compatibility.
As a Reiya Principal, Zoe recruits across all luxury yachting positions, with particular expertise in interior. She is passionate about connecting people with opportunities where they can thrive, while helping clients build successful, well-balanced teams that reflect their yacht’s standards and culture.