Head of Design Vessel & Yacht (Pleasure & Commercial)

Role

Location

Context

Design & Technical Scope Expected

• Exterior & hull design:
• hull form, hydrodynamics, stability, exterior profile, and visual identity.
• Interior & layout design:
• owner’s suite, guest suites, lounges, dining, cinema, spa, crew areas, and circulation.
• Deck & outdoor experience:
• sun‑pads, pool/beach‑club areas, tenders, toys, and outdoor circulation.
• Technical & systems integration:
• engine room, generators, HVAC, electrical, IT, AV, plumbing, and fire‑safety systems.
• Naval architecture & engineering coordination:
• weight estimates, structural integrity, and class‑compliance.
• Safety & compliance:
• knowledge of yacht codes (RINA, Lloyds, MCA, LY2) and, where relevant, commercial‑vessel rules.
• Operational / commercial‑style thinking:
• understanding of crew workflow, galley, storage, and passenger‑comfort considerations (for charter or commercial‑style operations).

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the full design and transformation strategy for the vessel.
• Coordinate with naval architects, marine engineers, interior design studios, and shipyards.
• Oversee refit planning, technical reviews, and full‑vessel feasibility studies.
• Develop and present high‑level design concepts and detailed scopes aligned with the Chairman’s vision.
• Manage vendor selection, negotiations, and quality control for all design and technical works.
• Advise the Chairman on feasibility, timelines, risks, and trade‑offs.

Profile Required

• 12–15+ years in
• yacht design, vessel refit, naval architecture, or commercial‑vessel design
• , with a strong bias toward superyachts and large luxury vessels.
• Senior leadership role (Director / Head of Design / Principal / Senior Project Manager) on large refits or new builds.
• Experience or strong understanding of
• both private pleasure yachts and commercial / charter vessels
• .
• Broad technical knowledge of all vessel areas and systems.
• Strong background in exterior + interior design, layout, and luxury‑hospitality experience.
• Familiarity with European shipyards and superyacht design studios.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder‑management, and commercial judgment skills.
• Degree in Yacht Design, Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or Interior Design preferred.