Lead Appointed Person - Lifting Operations

About Sunseeker International

Sunseeker was founded on a bold vision: to create a new kind of yacht and redefine what was possible on the water. From our earliest designs in 1967, we’ve pushed boundaries and reshaped the motor yacht industry through innovation, craftsmanship and relentless ambition.

At the heart of every Sunseeker lies a legacy of expert hands and meticulous attention to detail, skills refined and passed down through generations. These are the qualities that set our yachts apart - and the qualities that continue to drive our craft today.

In a world increasingly defined by automation, we remain committed to building hand‑crafted, hand‑finished boats. With over 1,800 talented team members across our busy shipyards - from long‑serving specialists to more than 180 apprentices - our Sunseeker workforce reflects the strength, diversity and pride of our local community. It’s this blend of heritage, skill and passion that makes our shipyards unlike any other place in the world.

Who We Are Seeking

At Sunseeker, we build some of the world's finest luxury motor yachts through exceptional craftsmanship, engineering excellence, and a relentless commitment to quality.

We are seeking an experienced and highly competent Lifting Operations & Support Services Lead (Lead Appointed Person) to provide technical leadership and governance for lifting operations across all Sunseeker sites. This is a key role within our Support Services team, responsible for ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient lifting operations while driving continuous improvement and operational excellence throughout the business.

The successful candidate will be a recognised subject matter expert with significant experience in complex lifting operations, strong knowledge of lifting legislation and best practice, and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organisation.

A Day in the Life

No two days are the same in this role. One day you may be developing lifting plans and coordinating mobile crane operations to support major production activities, while the next you could be conducting compliance audits, mentoring Appointed Persons, or supporting a significant machinery installation project.

Working across multiple Sunseeker sites, you will act as the business's Lead Appointed Person, providing expert guidance and assurance to operational teams, contractors, suppliers, and project stakeholders. You will play a vital role in ensuring all lifting activities are completed safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with legislative requirements and industry standards.

Example Responsibilities Include

• Acting as the Lead Appointed Person for all Sunseeker lifting operations across multiple sites.
• Planning, coordinating, and procuring mobile crane services.
• Developing and approving lift plans for complex and high-risk lifting activities.
• Driving cost reduction initiatives through improved crane utilisation and lift planning.
• Auditing Appointed Persons, lifting operations, equipment, and contractor compliance.
• Ensuring compliance with LOLER, PUWER, Health & Safety legislation, and company procedures.
• Managing lifting equipment inspection, testing, certification, and statutory compliance programmes.
• Reviewing lift plans, RAMS, and risk assessments.
• Developing company lifting standards, procedures, and best practices.
• Providing coaching, guidance, and technical support to internal Appointed Persons.
• Planning and coordinating lifting, plant, and operator training programmes.
• Supporting Production Engineering, Facilities, and Capital Projects with major lifts, machinery moves, and installation activities.
• Assisting with supplier tenders for crane operations, lifting services, inspections, and training providers.
• Leading continuous improvement initiatives to enhance safety, productivity, and cost efficiency.
• Maintaining accurate compliance records and management reporting.

To Be Considered for This Role You Should Have

• Proven experience managing complex lifting operations.
• Extensive knowledge of LOLER, PUWER, and lifting industry best practice.
• Experience creating, reviewing, and approving lift plans and risk assessments.
• Strong auditing, compliance, and contractor management experience.
• Excellent planning, organisation, and communication skills.
• The ability to lead through influence and build relationships across a large organisation.
• Experience within manufacturing, marine, heavy engineering, construction, or a similar environment.
• A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel between Sunseeker sites.

Essential Qualifications

• CPCS Appointed Person (Blue Card).
• Crane Supervisor Certification.
• Slinger/Signaller Certification.
• Relevant Crane Operator Certification.
• IOSH Managing Safely (or equivalent).
• Full UK Driving Licence.

Desirable Qualifications

• NEBOSH General Certificate.
• Additional lifting equipment qualifications.
• Leadership or Management qualification (CMI Level 3 or Level 5).
• Experience supporting capital projects and facility developments.

Sunseeker employees benefit from

With 7 miles of golden sandy beaches, flanked on both sides by the New Forest National Park and the Jurassic Coast line, working in Poole for a genuinely premiere international brand offers an enviable opportunity to truly live the dream. All the usual benefits you would expect from a sophisticated manufacturing organisation are available, including:

• A generous company pension scheme - 6% employer contribution
• Private medical insurance, including baby bonus and Digital GP (after 2 years)
• Dental insurance (after 2 years)
• Annual leave increases with continued service
• Health Assured EAP
• Trained Mental Health First Aiders
• Death in service scheme (£)
• Employee discounts with a wide range of third party businesses (up to 30% off) including Perkbox