Oyster Yachts has announced that it is recruiting over 100 new staff. With facilities in Southampton, Wroxham and Ashmanhaugh, and offices in Palma and the US, the company will soon be 400 strong.
The company is looking for experienced laminators, joiners, finishers, electricians and engineers. There are opportunities for a number of apprentices.
Becky Bridgen, Oyster’s deputy CEO, says the company has a full order book with positive international interest for its bespoke sailing yachts. “Our growth strategy is firmly on track, driving demand for additional expert craftspeople across our shipyards,” says Bridgen. “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.”
Oyster Yachts started a recruitment drive in November 2019, at that time advertising for 150 new staff. Mujgan Trowbridge, head of HR for Oyster Yachts, says: “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.”
After two years at the helm, CEO and owner Richard Hadida describes this as a “hugely exciting time” for the UK boatbuilder. ”I’m passionate about Oyster and the skills required to build our beautiful yachts,” he says. ”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.”
Oyster Yachts builds hand-crafted bluewater sailboats from 56ft-120ft and is planning a new sub-50ft model later this year.