Technical Manager – Yachts

Company: Denison Yachting
Location: Fort Lauderdale
Salary: Competitive (aligned with experience and scope)
Contract: Full-time, shore-based
Start: Flexible / by agreement

Overview

We are seeking a capable and commercially minded Technical Manager to join Denison’s Fort Lauderdale team, taking primary responsibility for the technical management and operational oversight of managed yachts.

This role suits a former senior onboard professional who has transitioned ashore (or is ready to do so), and who can combine hands-on technical understanding with clear, confident client communication. While the role is technically focused, the successful candidate will also play an important part in day-to-day owner liaison, helping to manage expectations and reduce dependency on senior leadership for routine client interaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Day-to-day technical management of assigned yachts, including maintenance planning, defect tracking, and ongoing operational support

• Planning and oversight of shipyard periods, refits, and major maintenance projects, including cost control and timelines

• Liaison with captains, engineers, shipyards, suppliers, flag states, and class

• Monitoring and managing technical budgets, invoices, and expenditure reporting

• Ensuring yachts remain compliant with flag, class, ISM/ISPS, and commercial requirements

• Acting as a trusted technical point of contact for owners, providing clear explanations, options, and recommendations

• Supporting captains and crews with practical, solutions-driven guidance

Ideal Background

• Former Captain, Chief Engineer, Chief Officer, or senior HOD on yachts over 500 GT

• Strong technical and operational knowledge gained onboard, with the credibility to advise both crew and owners

• Experience working with shipyards, contractors, and classification societies

• Comfortable stepping into a client-facing role, translating technical issues into clear, non-technical language

Key Attributes

• Technically confident but commercially aware

• Calm, professional communicator with strong interpersonal skills

• Organised, proactive, and capable of managing multiple priorities

• Owner-focused mindset with a pragmatic, solution-led approach

• Able to operate with autonomy while integrating into a wider management team