Lifting Operations Manager

Marine Resources has an exciting opportunity for a Lifting Operations Manager for a full time permanent position based in Itchenor. This is a hands-on leadership role within the operational team, responsible for the efficient, safe, and customer-focused management of the 7-day-a-week indoor/outdoor boat lift and launch and Marina Boatyard Operations. This role requires a dynamic leader who will oversee all aspects of site operations, safety implementation, compliance, and machinery maintenance, ensuring a seamless service delivery.

As this is a start-up environment, we are seeking a proactive individual who is hands on with all elements of Boat Lifting and boat movements, can build, develop, and manage both a team and an operation from the ground up. You will provide leadership, training, and development to the team while maintaining the highest standards in safety, operational efficiency, customer service, and site presentation. This is an operational role with key responsibilities in planning boat movements and implementing new Lift and Launch propositions.

• Operations & Safety
  • Implement site safety measures in line with risk assessments and compliance documentation.
  • Ensure full compliance with all Health & Safety regulations, statutory requirements, and industry standards, including LOLER and environmental legislation.
  • Plan and oversee the movement and storage of boats within the marina, boatyard, and Lift and Launch racking system, optimizing space efficiency.
  • Develop and implement new Lift and Launch propositions, ensuring smooth integration into daily operations.
  • Ensure all lifting, launching, setting down, scrubbing, and mast handling operations are carried out safely and efficiently.
  • Conduct routine safety inspections, emergency drills, and ensure fire safety compliance across the site.
  • Maintain and enforce high site standards, including cleanliness and general upkeep.
• Machinery, Equipment & Compliance
  • Take full ownership of all site machinery and equipment, ensuring proper use, routine servicing, maintenance, and compliance with all legal requirements.
  • Implement efficient processes and procedures that ensure all operational processes relating to machinery, site, legal, H & S & overall standards.
  • Oversee and manage lifting equipment, boat movers, tractors, and other mechanical assets, ensuring their safe and efficient operation.
  • Coordinate planned maintenance schedules, repair works, and compliance testing (e.g., LOLER inspections) to avoid downtime and maintain safety.
  • Maintain accurate records for all equipment servicing, repairs, and compliance audits.
• Team Management & Leadership
  • Recruit, train, and lead a high-performing team, ensuring a culture of accountability, safety, and customer service.
  • Manage work schedules and resource allocation, ensuring appropriate staffing for peak and off-peak periods.
  • Conduct daily briefings, toolbox talks, and performance reviews, fostering continuous improvement.
  • Implement staff training programs to develop technical skills, customer interaction and culture and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Customer Service & Site Presentation
  • Be the visible leader of the operation, ensuring customers receive a friendly, professional, and efficient service.
  • Respond to customer inquiries, issues, and feedback promptly to maintain high satisfaction levels.
  • Oversee site presentation, ensuring cleanliness, tidiness, and functionality of facilities, including restrooms, storage areas, and workspaces.
  • Maintain accurate records of boat movements, job completions, and operational tasks using job cards and relevant software.
• Maintenance & Contractor Management
  • Organize and manage external contractors for site repairs, infrastructure improvements, and essential maintenance.
  • Ensure that all external work meets required safety and operational standards.
  • Plan and oversee minor site maintenance projects, logging defects and coordinating timely repairs.
• General & Administrative Duties
  • Maintain up-to-date records of all vessels on-site, ensuring berth checks and storage records are accurate.
  • Act as a keyholder and be available as an out-of-hours emergency contact when required.
  • Regularly review operational processes, identify areas for improvement, and implement best practices.
  • Assist in implementing marketing, PR, and service strategies to drive business growth and enhance customer experience.

• Minimum of four years in a management role, with at least two years in marina, yard and machine management and operations.
• Strong leadership skills, with experience in building and managing teams and implementing new operational business propositions.
• Extensive knowledge of Health & Safety regulations, including LOLER and general compliance requirements.
• Experience managing and maintaining site machinery and lifting equipment, ideally with good mechanical & technical knowledge of Marine related machinery.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and problem-solve effectively.
• Customer-focused mindset, with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Practical, hands-on approach to operations, including experience using yard equipment.