Team Leader (Lacquer Department at TC) in Poole

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.

Who We Are Seeking

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Team Leader to support the Lacquer Department and help drive Sunseeker’s commitment to building the finest luxury yachts in the world. In this role, you will play an essential part in strengthening our performance culture, leading by example and ensuring quality, safety, delivery and people standards are consistently met. You will manage and support your team in a genuine, respectful and proactive way, with a no‑compromise approach to excellence. This role presents an excellent promotion opportunity for a skilled Lacquer Repairer / Technician / Sprayer looking to take the next step in their career, or for an experienced Team Leader seeking a move into a new production line.

A Day in the Life

Your day starts on the shop floor at Technology Centre, checking in with your team and setting the tone for a safe and productive shift. You’ll review the plan for the day, confirm build priorities and ensure everyone is clear on quality expectations and safety standards. As the shift progresses, you’ll be hands‑on, supporting the team with technical guidance on lacquer preparation and spraying, coaching individuals to achieve the best possible finish. You’ll lead by example, balancing delivery pace with Sunseeker’s exacting quality standards. Throughout the day you’ll work closely with the Production Manager and Supply Chain, making sure the right parts and build kits are available in line with the build schedule. Where challenges arise, you’ll proactively resolve issues or elevate design changes through the correct channels to keep production moving smoothly. You’ll regularly review performance against KPIs – safety, quality, hours/delivery, defects, IPC completion and standardised work – and take ownership for driving improvements. Maintaining a well‑organised, efficient workspace is second nature to you, and you’ll actively champion 5S and waste reduction initiatives within your area. A key part of your role is developing people. Whether it’s mentoring an experienced sprayer or helping someone build new skills, you’ll take pride in creating a high‑performing, motivated, and flexible team. By the end of the shift, you’ll have confidence that work has been completed safely, to plan and to Sunseeker's standards, knowing you’ve played a vital role in delivering world‑class boats and supporting your team’s success.

Example Responsibilities Include

• Quality Monitoring production quality through operational awareness and 5S. Managing IPC completion, stage handovers and defect lists for Lacquer. Supporting Warranty with technical insight when required. Attending QIP meetings and contributing to continuous quality improvement.
• People & HR Acting as first‑line manager for direct and agency team members. Leading team performance, recognising strong work and managing underperformance where required. Conducting start/end‑of‑shift processes and maintaining strong team communication. Mentoring new starters, apprentices and contractors. Completing probationary reviews and supporting HR processes. Covering day‑to‑day management needs in the Production Manager’s absence.
• Cost Managing operational efficiency through SOS meetings. Allocating work effectively to minimise non‑value‑adding activity. Maintaining daily records (e.g., Kronos, standard work sign‑off) and correcting discrepancies. Controlling spend on parts and consumables, reducing waste wherever possible.
• Health & Safety Ensuring a safe working environment with zero compromise. Identifying and reporting unsafe practices immediately. Upholding all H&S policies and managing breaches appropriately. Supporting a RIDDOR‑free environment through excellent safety standards and reporting.
• Delivery Monitoring performance efficiency and labour requirements (OPR or Labour Utilisation reporting). Supporting red line drawings and change processes (DCR, CIP, CTQ). Planning tooling, lifts and moves. Acting as a trade expert in specification meetings. Ensuring inter‑departmental coordination for on‑time delivery. Raising and managing critical parts to align with BOM requirements. Attending boat stage handovers and ensuring alignment of part delivery.

To Be Considered for This Role You Should

• Experience of Lacquer / Spray / Paintspray within a production environment.
• Strong people‑management capability with experience leading teams or projects.
• A solid understanding of Health, Safety & Welfare practices.
• CMI Level 3 (or equivalent) is desirable but not essential.
• Excellent communication, decision‑making and organisational skills.
• A proactive approach to first‑line management, H&S, and quality processes.
• A passion for Sunseeker’s product, values and high standards.

Sunseeker employees benefit from

• 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).
• Employee Discounts & Benefits via PERKBOX.