Robert D. Leslie, affectionately known as Bob Leslie among yacht owners and industry peers, passed away on July 11, leaving a legacy that spans over five decades in the world of yachting. He was 81 years old at the time of his death.
Born in 1945 in Massachusetts, Bob’s passion for boating ignited at a tender age of 11 when he stumbled upon an abandoned 10-foot dory in a local river. With youthful enthusiasm, he restored the dory and launched it back into the water, marking the beginning of a lifelong love affair with boats. This early experience set the stage for his future endeavors, leading him, 25 years later, to live aboard a ketch docked in Boston Harbor. Throughout the 1980s, he passionately participated in prestigious competitions, including the Newport to Bermuda Race and the Southern Ocean Racing Conference (SORC).
Although Leslie earned a degree in business management from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1969, his true calling unfolded in the yachting sector beginning in 1971. His professional journey kicked off at Graves Yacht Yard in Marblehead, where he began his work as a yacht broker. In 1985, he took a significant step by acquiring Northrop & Johnson’s Marblehead office, a venture he managed successfully for 22 years before selling it in 2007. Rather than part ways with the firm entirely, Leslie continued his role as a broker at Northrop & Johnson, establishing himself in the Newport, Rhode Island office. Throughout his career, he played a pivotal role in mentoring countless brokers, including Kevin Merrigan, the current chairman of Northrop & Johnson. Merrigan credits Leslie with influencing his decision to join the firm, stating, “Bob was one of the biggest influences on my decision to join Northrop & Johnson. He treated everyone with respect, conducted business with unwavering integrity, and proved success comes from earning trust over a lifetime.”
Beyond his work at Northrop & Johnson, Leslie made significant contributions to the industry as president of the Yacht Architects and Brokers Association from 1991 to 1993, an organization that evolved into the Yacht Brokers Association of America in 2000. His commitment to excellence earned him the title of Broker of the Year in 1991. Leslie was also instrumental in establishing the Certified Professional Yacht Broker exam, the industry’s national standardized test, further solidifying his influence within the yacht brokerage landscape.
Merrigan fondly describes Leslie as not only a mentor but a true friend, remarking, “He represented the very best of Northrop & Johnson and of our industry.” This sentiment echoes throughout the yachting community, showcasing the respect and admiration Leslie garnered over his extensive career.
Outside of his professional accolades, Bob Leslie was known for his diverse interests. He enjoyed alpine ski racing well past his 80th birthday, exemplifying his zest for life and adventure. In addition to skiing, he maintained a love for golf and cycling, and recently acquired a classic 1951 MG TD coupe, showcasing his passion for vintage cars.
Leslie is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Haran, and his son, Scott Leslie. In honor of his memory, the family has established a scholarship at Salem State University in Massachusetts. Contributions can be made to The Robert D. Leslie, Helen and Francis Haran Scholarship via the link below, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Salem State University participate.salemstate.edu