Commanding Officer in Hampshire

Thousands of young people take part in Sea Cadets activity every week. We want to reach thousands more. We have a strong vision and are on the cusp of rolling out a new multi-year growth strategy to meet the growing demand for what we provide for young people. We aim to equip them to achieve their potential and thrive in a rapidly changing world. We are immensely proud of the breadth, quality and safety of activities we offer to young people.

About the role

The Commanding Officer, TS John Jerwood is the Master of the vessel and is accountable to the Head of Offshore (DPA) for every aspect of the safe operation of the ship. This seafarer’s position requires prolonged periods of duty and flexible working hours. The role, vessel and Offshore organisation are compliant with the Maritime Labour Convention 2006, including provisions for crew rest and generous leave. Due to the nature of the work, this post is exempt from the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the post holder will be required to undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Responsibilities

• The Commanding Officer is to use their knowledge, skills and experience to lead a crew of three other seafarers and two volunteers in the safe operation of the ship.
• They are the line manager of all other crew onboard, monitoring suitability, qualifications and experience of all seafarers and managing continuous professional development of the permanent crew.
• They manage a programme of voyages in the UK and near‑abroad, creating opportunities for personal growth and adventure for cadets, practical application of maritime knowledge and skills, and training and certification under the RYA Motor Cruising scheme.
• They are accountable to the Head of Offshore for the material state and safety of the vessel.
• They act as the senior advisor to the Head of Offshore with respect to that class of vessel.
• They act in the best interests of the charity, as ambassadors for the sea cadets, and promote those interests with local and regional partners.

Qualifications

• Yachtmaster Offshore (Power) or equivalent.
• Yachtmaster Offshore (Motor Cruising) with commercial endorsement (or Merchant Navy equivalent CofC).
• Ship-handling experience to command a 24m twin screw motor vessel.
• Strong management and leadership skills with the ability to direct ship staff with clarity and positively.
• Ability to interact effectively with a wide range of personnel from young cadets to visiting VIPs.
• Proven instructional ability.

Desirable

• Previous experience in operation and management of motor training vessels.
• RYA Cruising Instructor or Yachtmaster Instructor.
• Experience or knowledge of uniformed youth organisations.
• Experience working within the charitable, voluntary or not-for-profit sector.

Equal opportunities and safeguarding

MSSC is an equal opportunities employer. We recognise our responsibilities to safeguard and protect the young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We do all we can to promote their health, safety and wellbeing, and we expect our staff to share this commitment and work in line with safeguarding policy, the values, and the ethos of inclusivity. Employment is subject to detailed pre‑employment checks, including references, criminal disclosure checks and a disclosure questionnaire. All successful applicants must attend safeguarding training and undergo a criminal record check.

Benefits

• 104 days annual leave per annum
• Life assurance (4x salary) for those that join the pension
• Private medical insurance
• Volunteering Leave
• Generous pension (employer contribution up to 10%)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Access to the Marine Society Digital Library
• Wellbeing portal and employee assistance programme with 121 counselling
• Employee development: Annual calendar of learning and development opportunities to support staff growth.