Head of Ferry Design

Mission

The role focuses on overseeing the design and delivery of ferry projects, participating in sales initiatives, and contributing to strategic growth. This is a senior role requiring a combination of technical expertise, project management and commercial skills. #FORESHIP

Key Accountabilities

Design Leadership:

• Develop, and then lead the ferry design team, ensuring high-quality technical deliverables and compliance with classification societies and client specifications.
• Oversee complex ferry design projects, from concept to delivery, ensuring timelines and budgets are met.
• Support innovation and integration of new technologies in ferry and other ship projects.

Project Management:

• Act as Project Manager for key ferry projects, ensuring effective coordination between internal teams/clients, and be in charge of the general arrangement development.
• Provide mentorship and leadership to project managers, designers, and engineers within the ferries division.
• Monitor project performance, risk, and resource allocation.

Sales & Business Development:

• Lead ferry-related sales activities, building strong client relationships and identifying new business opportunities.
• Collaborate with the sales team to prepare proposals, technical offers, and commercial bids.
• Contribute to strategic planning and market positioning for the ferries division.

Cross-Functional Contribution:

• Support other shipbuilding projects (e.g., cruise ships, new technology vessels) as a senior technical advisor.
• Provide guidance and expertise on design innovation, regulatory compliance, and project execution across teams.

Qualifications

• Degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or a related discipline.
• +10 years of experience in ferry design, naval architecture, and related shipbuilding projects.
• Proven experience in as Project Manager, team lead or department head is a must.
• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks and classification society requirements for ferries.
• Strong technical skills with proficiency in AutoCAD and other naval architecture software.
• Excellent client-facing and communication skills, capable of leading project sales activities.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken is required. Additional languages such as Finnish, would represent a plus.
• Solid organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage priorities under tight schedules.
• Availability to travel as needed.

Competencies