Job Description

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