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Oyster Yachts to recruit further 100 people as demand grows
Oyster Yachts – the Southampton-based luxury sailing yacht builder – is set to recruit a further 100 people to join its workforce. With shipyards in Southampton, Wroxham and Ashmanhaugh, as well as offices in Palma and the US, the new roles will expand the boatbuilder’s headcount to over 400 people internationally.
The skills required are predominately within production, with the company looking for laminators, joiners, finishers, electricians and engineers. There will also be opportunities for a number of apprentices to join the company.
Oyster Yachts is creating 100 new jobs to meet international demand / Picture: Oyster Yachts
Oyster Yachts has a full order book for its hand-crafted bluewater sailboats, which currently range from 56 to 120 feet, with the company set to announce a new sub-50-foot model later this year.
Becky Bridgen, deputy chief executive, said: “Our growth strategy is firmly on track, driving demand for additional expert craftspeople across our shipyards. We are realising our vision to create jobs for skilled craftsmen and women in the UK marine industry. It’s a proud moment as we start the next phase of our journey.”
The company started a recruitment drive in November 2019, at that time advertising for 150 new staff.
Mujgan Trowbridge, head of group human resources, said: “Despite Covid-19, we managed to hire 64 people, most of whom were required at our composite technology centre at Ashmanhaugh. We are now actively seeking a further 100 staff, 60 to join our Wroxham facility before Christmas 2020 and 40 in Southampton by March 2021.”
Chief executive and owner Richard Hadida, concluded: “After two years at the helm this is a hugely exciting time for Oyster. I’m passionate about Oyster and the skills required to build our beautiful yachts. I will be delighted to welcome more of the very best master craftspeople to the team. In addition, we are continuing to invest in Oyster apprenticeships to grow and safeguard great British boatbuilding skills for the future.”