Sales Director
Location: Ipswich, UK (with international travel)
Reports to: Managing Director
This is an opportunity to join the leading modern classic yacht design and build yard at a time when the company is thriving. With a healthy order book and a variety of wooden sail and motor yachts in build, Spirit Yachts is building on its 30+ year legacy whilst remaining innovative in its designs. This new role works with passionate owners, sub‑contractors, leading suppliers, and the talented in‑house team. The company ethos is strong, with a tight‑knit team – all of whom have a passion for craftsmanship, quality, and sustainability.
Role Overview
The Sales Director will lead and execute the global sales strategy for Spirit Yachts, driving revenue growth across new yacht and brokerage sales. This role combines client relationship management with product development, ensuring Spirit Yachts continues to deliver world‑class, modern classic sail and motor yachts.
In addition, the Sales Director will oversee the warranty and aftersales functions, ensuring an exceptional ownership experience that reflects the brand’s craftsmanship, heritage, and premium market position.
Key Responsibilities
Sales Leadership – New Build & Brokerage
* Develop and implement a global sales strategy for new build yachts and brokerage listings
* Manage the sales cycle from lead generation through to contract negotiation and signing
* Build and maintain strong relationships with high‑net‑worth individuals, repeat clients, and sales representatives
* Represent Spirit Yachts at international boat shows and industry events
* Maintain a robust sales pipeline and deliver accurate forecasting and reporting
* Collaborate with marketing to position the brand effectively and generate qualified leads
Brokerage
* Manage Spirit Yachts’ brokerage portfolio in line with company objectives
* Ensure high‑quality listings, valuations, and timely sales progression
* Develop partnerships with global brokerage agents, where relevant
* Oversee commission structures, negotiations, and compliance with industry standards
Product Development & Market Insight
* Feed market intelligence and customer insights into design and build teams
* Collaborate with naval architects and designers on new product concepts and improvements
* Identify emerging trends in yacht design, sustainability, and owner expectations
* Support the commercial viability and positioning of new models and product lines
Warranty & Aftersales Leadership
* Oversee the warranty and aftersales teams to deliver quality ownership experience
* Establish and maintain high standards for customer service and issue resolution
* Monitor warranty claims, identify recurring issues, and drive continuous improvement
* Build long‑term client relationships to encourage repeat business and referrals
Key Skills & Experience
Essential:
* Strong technical knowledge of sailing yachts and powerboats, including operation and systems
* Minimum 5 years’ experience in project management and/or client‑facing sales within the marine industry
* Commercial awareness of build hours, labour rates, and cost structures to ensure profitable sales
* Sailing background or equivalent expertise to credibly advise and support HNW clients
* Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with HNW individuals
* Experience managing high‑value sales through to contract stage
* Professional handling of client queries and escalations with discretion and attention to detail
* Excellent communication, organisational, and administrative/reporting skills
* Ability to develop detailed yacht specifications and accurate costings, including aftersales and warranty considerations
* Confident brand ambassador, representing the company at international yacht shows and events
* Experience researching and specifying innovative, sustainable products and materials
* Knowledge of marine equipment, supply chains, and procurement processes
* Strong network and relationship management with global service partners, marinas, and technical specialists
* Ability to establish and uphold premium service standards and internal processes
Desirable:
* RYA Yachtmaster Offshore
* Sailing experience – cruising or racing
* Motor yacht experience
* PRINCE2 Management Course or similar
The role is for a flexible 40 hour week, standard hours are between 08:30 and 17:00.
The position will include 28 days holiday (exclusive of bank holidays). Expect to use 3-5 days annual leave during the Christmas/New Year workshop closure.
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