Job Description

The Yacht Manager serves as the primary point of contact for yacht owners, ensuring the smooth operation, maintenance, and management of luxury yachts. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to managing the diverse needs of the yacht, its crew, and its owner. The Yacht Manager oversees all aspects of the yacht's operations, including financial management, compliance, crew recruitment, and operational planning, ensuring high standards of service and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

1. Operational Management

Serve as the principal point of contact for yacht owners, captains, and other stakeholders, fostering clear communication and trust.

Oversee day-to-day yacht operations, ensuring smooth performance in all aspects, including navigation, port arrangements, and on-board services.

Strategically plan and coordinate yacht itineraries, including cruising routes, charter schedules, and special events, ensuring alignment with owner preferences.

Conduct regular inspections of the yacht, addressing any operational concerns and ensuring standards are met.

Develop contingency plans and respond effectively to emergencies, such as mechanical failures, weather disruptions, or unforeseen incidents.

2. Crew Management

Partner with captains to define crew requirements, ensuring the team meets operational needs and delivers exceptional service.

Lead the recruitment process, from sourcing and interviewing candidates to overseeing contractual agreements.

Implement training and professional development programs to maintain crew performance and adherence to maritime standards.

Manage crew rotations, leave schedules, and performance evaluations, balancing operational demands with crew well-being.

Act as a mentor and mediator to resolve interpersonal conflicts and maintain a cohesive, motivated crew.

3. Maintenance & Technical Oversight

Develop and implement comprehensive maintenance schedules to uphold the yacht's condition and longevity.

Supervise all technical operations, including inspections, refits, and upgrades, ensuring alignment with class society and flag state requirements.

Monitor and approve all repair activities, verifying quality and timeliness of work performed by shipyards and contractors.

Maintain detailed records of equipment warranties, service histories, and operational manuals.

Proactively identify potential technical issues, mitigating risks before they escalate into larger problems.

4. Financial Management

Establish and manage annual operating budgets, tracking expenses to optimize cost-efficiency without compromising quality.

Oversee financial operations, including vendor payments, crew salaries, provisioning, and maintenance costs.

Provide transparent financial reporting to yacht owners, including detailed expenditure breakdowns and variance analyses.

Negotiate contracts and pricing with suppliers, shipyards, and service providers to secure favorable terms.

Ensure compliance with tax regulations and financial reporting standards applicable to yacht operations.

5. Compliance & Administration

Guarantee the yacht adheres to all international maritime regulations, including SOLAS, MARPOL, and ISM/ISPS codes.

Ensure all flag state and port authority documentation is current, including safety certifications, insurance policies, and crew qualifications.

Stay abreast of changing maritime laws and regulations, updating practices accordingly to maintain compliance.

Maintain meticulous records, including voyage logs, crew certifications, and maintenance documentation, for audits and inspections.

Act as the owner's representative during audits, surveys, and inspections by authorities or insurers.

6. Charter Operations (if applicable)

Collaborate with charter brokers to market the yacht effectively, maximizing revenue potential.

Manage charter contracts, ensuring all legal and financial obligations are met.

Oversee guest experiences during charters, ensuring seamless service and addressing any concerns promptly.

Coordinate provisioning, crew arrangements, and guest preferences to deliver personalized, high-end service.

Analyze charter performance metrics and provide owners with insights to optimize charter profitability.

7. Relationship Management

Build and maintain strong relationships with yacht owners, crew, vendors, brokers, and maritime authorities.

Represent the yacht professionally at industry events, shipyards, and ports of call.

Serve as an advisor to yacht owners, providing recommendations on upgrades, charter strategies, and operational efficiencies.

Foster a culture of excellence, teamwork, and accountability among all stakeholders.

Qualifications & Experience

Education: Degree in Maritime Studies, Marine Engineering, Business Management, or a related field (preferred but not mandatory).

Experience: Minimum 5+ years in yacht management, maritime operations, or a related role. Experience with luxury yachts or charter operations is highly desirable.

Certifications:

oSTCW Basic Safety Training (mandatory).

oYachtmaster or equivalent maritime certifications (preferred).

Key Skills & Competencies

Comprehensive knowledge of yacht operations, including technical and regulatory aspects.

Strong financial management skills with an ability to create and manage budgets.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with owners, crew, and third parties.

Problem-solving and decision-making abilities in high-pressure situations.

Proficient in using yacht management software and Microsoft Office Suite.

Multilingual abilities (preferred, especially in English, French, or Italian).

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent