Fleet DPA Manager - Yachting
Location - Southampton, London or Monaco
The Fleet DPA Manager serves as the company’s Designated Person Ashore (DPA) in accordance with the ISM Code, acting as the critical link between shore-based management and the fleet. This role is responsible for ensuring the effective implementation, monitoring, and continuous improvement of the Safety Management System (SMS) across all managed yachts, promoting a strong safety culture, and ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations.
Key Responsibilities
ISM & Compliance
* Act as the company’s Designated Person Ashore (DPA) as defined by the ISM Code
* Ensure the Safety Management System is properly implemented, maintained, and audited across the fleet
* Monitor compliance with ISM, ISPS (where applicable), MLC, Flag State, and Class requirements
* Liaise with Flag Administrations, Class Societies, and external auditors
* Prepare vessels for internal and external audits and inspections
Safety & Risk Management
* Promote a proactive safety culture throughout the fleet
* Monitor and analyse incidents, near misses, and non-conformities
* Ensure corrective and preventive actions are implemented and verified
* Oversee risk assessments, emergency preparedness, and drills
* Act as the primary shore contact for Masters regarding safety and operational concerns
Fleet Oversight & Support
* Provide operational and safety guidance to Masters and senior officers
* Conduct vessel visits and inspections as required
* Support crew with SMS procedures, training, and best practices
* Review and update SMS manuals, procedures, and policies
* Assist in the management of safety-related documentation and records
Reporting & Continuous Improvement
* Prepare management review reports and safety performance metrics
* Identify trends and opportunities for improvement across the fleet
* Recommend enhancements to systems, procedures, and training
* Ensure lessons learned are communicated fleet-wide
Qualifications & Experience
Essential
* Valid Designated Person Ashore (DPA) qualification
* Minimum 5 years’ experience in yacht or commercial maritime operations
* Strong knowledge of ISM Code, MLC 2006, Flag State and Class requirements
* Previous experience as a Master, Chief Officer, or senior shore-based role
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills
* High level of organizational and analytical ability
Desirable
* Experience managing multiple yachts within a fleet
* Yacht management company background
* ISPS and ISO auditing experience
* Relevant maritime degree or certification
Personal Attributes
* Strong leadership and decision-making skills
* Approachable and professional communication style
* High attention to detail
* Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities
* Calm and effective under pressure
Why Join Us
* Opportunity to oversee a diverse and high-quality yacht fleet
* Key leadership role influencing safety and operational standards
* Competitive compensation package
* Dynamic, international working environment
* Candidates can be based from either the Southampton, London or Monaco office
* Salary band for this position is c£80,000pa + benefits/bonus