Boat Development Manager

We’re excited to be working with our client based in the Highlands and Islands region for a Boat Development Manager 6-month fixed term contract position. Our client is looking for an experienced Development/Project Manager to undertake a boat development options appraisal and business planning exercise to underpin strategic decision making by all stakeholders involved within and out with the business
This will be a remote working role with some adhoc minimal travel involved.
 
THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT 
  • Proven experience in business development or sales within the marine or shipyard industry.
  • Technical boat knowledge/background (in maritime charter, engineering, or naval architecture).
  • Good contacts/relationships with surveyors and boat yards.
  • Strong stakeholder communication, negotiation, and reporting skills, plus the ability to translate technical knowledge for non-specialists.
  • Sound understanding of safety and compliance, including international maritime regulations and coding requirements.
  • Familiarity with boat operations on the west coast of Scotland and the challenges and limitations of operating a vessel in this location.
  • Confident in ability to communicate project results/recommendations with internal stakeholders and funders through bid writing and pitch meetings.
  • Understanding of the charitable sector, or previous experience working for a third sector organisation.
JOB DESCRIPTION  
  • Undertake a full options appraisal and business planning exercise to include a refit of the current research vessel, purchase and fitting out of a replacement vessel, and the expansion of the boat-based assets of the charity to include purchase of a second vessel.
  • Document requirements, technical specifications, and whole life costs, covering a minimum 10-year period, for the development of the existing research vessel and procurement of a new boat asset (second-hand or brand new), in consultation with Committees, scientific and educational staff.
  • Scope the requirements, delivery plans, and budget for a full refit of the current vessel to modernise the living space, boat systems and capabilities.
  • Conduct extensive market research on suitable second-hand vessels available to purchase and refit and present options for consideration and shortlisting.
  • Scope the requirements and costs for a new build vessel, including a review of suitable boat builders / shipyards and the development of relevant partnerships and contacts.
  • Produce a business plan covering a minimum 10-year operational period for the various options identified, including annual operating costs for any new vessel that is uncovered by market research and shortlisted by the committee, in isolation and in combination with the operation of the current vessel.
  • Present findings, collate feedback and provide expertise and facilitation to assist to select an option, or combination of options, to take forward.
  • Outline a fundraising strategy and assist the Director to draft grant proposal documentation and hold initial funding pitch meetings.
REMUNERATION PACKAGE ON OFFER  
 
Competitive salary on offer