Phoenix is a Yacht Management Company, based in Dubai, the rising hub of luxury yachting. Phoenix is at the centre of every need when it comes to yachting management, sales, charter and much more. Our vastly experienced and highly qualified team equips us with an extensive range of services, covering all areas of yacht management.
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Build Captain / On site Project Manager to oversee a new build project in Italy. If you are someone who is well organised, motivated and passionate in their role with excellent communicative skills and precise attention to detail, then we are keen to hear from you.
The successful candidate will bring a deep understanding of yacht systems, engineering, shipyard operations and a proven track record of new build supervision. You will understand the importance of nurturing strong relationships, as well as understanding the client's unique needs and preferences, and ensuring the seamless delivery of the project. You will be the primary liaison between the shipyard, contractors, and our internal teams, ensuring the build and delivery are met to the highest standards at the yard.
You will to be flexible as there will be occasions when you are required to work additional hours outside of our core business hours to ensure service is covered. You may need to travel worldwide at short notice, as and when required. The role is permanently based in Italy, near Viareggio / Rossinavi shipyard.
Objectives of this role
The Build Captain / On-site Manager will lead the construction phase full-time, on site during construction through to delivery in May 2029, at which point they will transition into the role of permanent Captain. To bring a strong technical command across all build phases, including hull, mechanical, electrical and outfit stages. You will be working with designers, Class and Flag during the build phase. A commitment to ensure real-time oversight in terms of budget and a disciplined approach to variation and change control, ensuring any deviations are documented, justified and approved. You will lead crew planning and early stage operational preparation to ensure a seamless transition from construction to seagoing operations. You will have comprehensive experience managing the final phases, including commissioning, sea trials, and the formal handover/delivery process.
Key Responsibilities
Full-time Construction Oversight:
* Provide rigorous, full-time on-site supervision of all construction activities to ensure the vessel is built to the highest industry standards.
* Act as the primary point of contact between the shipyard, naval architects, designers, Class surveyors, and sub-contractors
Technical Oversight & Schedule Tracking:
* Oversee and coordinate work performed by shipyards, contractors, and specialized vendors.
* Ensure compliance with class society requirements, flag state regulations, and international maritime conventions.
* On-site inspections to monitor progress, quality, and adherence to specifications.
* Proactively track construction progress against the master schedule, ensuring all milestones are met and potential delays are mitigated early.
Quality & Risk Management:
* Manage budgets, tracking expenditure, approving invoices, and reporting on financial performance.
* Negotiate contracts and terms with shipyards, suppliers, and service providers to ensure cost-effectiveness.
* Identify potential cost overruns and implement mitigation strategies.
* Exercise strict quality oversight and implement early identification protocols for technical or safety risks to prevent costly rectifications.
·Stakeholder Communication & Reporting:
* Serve as the primary point of contact for management team, owners, owner's representatives, and yacht crews regarding project status.
* Provide clear, concise, and regular progress reports, including technical details, financial updates, and any potential issues.
* Facilitate effective communication channels between all parties involved in the project.
* Facilitate and support critical building decisions through technical reviews and expert recommendations.
Crew & Operations Integration:
* Assist in the strategic planning of crew hiring and the development of operational manuals to ensure the vessel is "operationally ready" at delivery.
* Lead commissioning, trials during the delivery phase.
Required skills and qualifications
* Proven experience as Captain minimum of 5-7 years, with proven new build or major refit experience
* Demonstrated new build supervision experience.
* Excellent negotiation and contract management abilities.
* Highly organised with meticulous attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
* Outstanding communication, presentation, report writing and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging effectively with owners, crew, shipyards, vendors and internal colleagues.
* Ability to travel extensively and on short notice to shipyards and yachts globally.
* A strong work ethic, high level of integrity, and ability to thrive in a demanding, fast-paced environment.
* Ability to think laterally and provide creative solutions to complex issues.
* Strong organisational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
* High level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism when handling sensitive information. A professional demeanor is paramount.
* Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team, always thinking one-step ahead. Ability to multitask and prioritise effectively to meet deadlines in a fast paced and dynamic environment.
* Proficiency in Project management software and Microsoft Office Suite (especially Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
* Proficiency in English is essential; Fluency in Italian would be a plus but not compulsory.
* A genuine passion for the yachting industry and a deep understanding of the unique demands of superyacht ownership.