With a full order book for the next three years — and following a summer hiring spree —sailboat manufacturer Oyster Yachts says it has the need to recruit a range of applicants to join the team.
Oyster is seeking to add to its workforce at U.K. facilities in Southampton and Wroxham after a busy summer and fall season to help meet demand — the company builds vessels ranging from 56 to 120 feet, plus a new 50-foot model that was announced earlier in the year.
“We have cast our search wide to attract experts beyond traditional boat building, specifically individuals with transferable skills, trades including electricians and joiners,” said Oyster human resources head Mujgan Trowbridge in a statement. “We are looking for a variety expert tradesmen and women such as joiners, electricians, laminators, painters and engineers, as well as experienced boat builders.”
This will be the company’s third recruitment drive in just over a year. The builder hired 64 people last November — with the bulk of the new employees assigned to the company’s composite technology center at Ashmanhaugh — and made the call to bulk up its staff in July.
Trowbridge said they will offer qualified applicants full training and competitive packages.
“Perhaps people might be thinking about transferring their skillset to work in a different industry or consider the boat building sector,” said Trowbridge. “Whether experienced, or just starting out, we are looking to support and encourage people to consider a career in building the finest sailing yachts in the world. We also offer an apprenticeship programme, which guarantees individuals a career in this unique industry, not to mention learning time-honoured craftsmanship skills.”
CEO Becky Bridgen said that among the economic challenges in the UK, it is heartening to be able to offer a number of roles at Oyster’s facilities.
“With full order books into 2023, we are able to offer our staff much needed financial stability and good career opportunities,” said Bridgen. “It is an exciting time for Oyster Yachts, and we look forward to sharing the journey with all our employees, new and existing.”
