Hire a Professional Chief Officer for Your Yacht
Skilled in Operations, Safety, and Navigation Support
Finding the right chief officer is essential for ensuring the smooth operation and safety of your luxury yacht. At Cara Lees Yacht Crew, we specialise in connecting yacht owners and management agencies with highly qualified chief officers (first officers) who excel in supporting captains and managing all aspects of deck operations.
Whether you own a private yacht, superyacht, or charter vessel, our personalised recruitment process ensures you’ll find a leader with the expertise and reliability to seamlessly oversee operations.
Ready to Find Your Ideal Chief / First Officer?
Speak To Cara to arrange a consultation.
Why Choose Cara Lees Yacht Crew for Your Chief Officer Hire?
With over 30 years of hands-on yachting experience, Cara Lees understands the pivotal role a chief officer plays in supporting the captain and managing the deck crew. Cara personally oversees every recruitment process, ensuring each candidate possesses the skills, qualifications, and leadership required for your yacht.
Our goal is simple: to find a chief officer who complements the captain’s leadership style, fits seamlessly into your crew, and enhances the operational efficiency and safety of your vessel.
The Role Of The Chief / First Officer
The Role of a Chief Officer: Support, Safety, and Deck Management
A chief officer (or first officer) is the captain’s trusted second-in-command. They take responsibility for key aspects of daily yacht operations, including:
- Assisting the Captain – Supporting navigation, voyage planning, and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.
- Overseeing Deck Crew – Leading and training the deck team to maintain a professional, safe, and efficient deck operation.
- Safety Management – Enforcing safety protocols and emergency preparedness for the crew and guests.
- Navigation and Planning – Assisting in route planning and ensuring the vessel’s safe passage.
Cara Lees Yacht Crew sources chief officers with proven expertise and qualifications, ensuring they bring professionalism and leadership to your vessel.
Every chief officer recommended by Cara Lees Yacht Crew meets the highest industry standards, including:
- STCW Certification – Compliant with international Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping.
- Leadership Skills – Experience in managing deck crew operations and ensuring efficient teamwork.
- Safety Expertise – In-depth knowledge of safety protocols, emergency procedures, and maritime compliance.
- Navigation Skills – Proficiency in navigation and route planning to assist the captain effectively.
Our rigorous vetting process ensures that every candidate is competent, reliable, and an ideal fit for your yacht’s needs.
Key Qualifications of a Chief Officer
Our Process: How We Find the Right Chief Officer
At Cara Lees Yacht Crew, we’ve perfected a recruitment process that guarantees you receive the ideal chief officer for your yacht:
- Initial Consultation – We begin by understanding your yacht’s requirements, operational style, and crew dynamic.
- Targeted Search – Leveraging our extensive network, we identify candidates with the relevant qualifications and experience.
- Comprehensive Interviews – Cara personally interviews each candidate to assess their technical skills, leadership qualities, and cultural fit.
- Rigorous Vetting – Reference and background checks ensure that all candidates have a proven track record of professionalism and expertise.
- Shortlisting – We provide a carefully curated selection of candidates, giving you the opportunity to interview and select the best fit.
- Onboarding Support – Cara offers ongoing support throughout the onboarding phase, ensuring a smooth transition for both you and the new hire.
Hire a Chief Officer Now
Ready to Find Your Ideal Chief Officer?
Let Cara Lees Yacht Crew help you find the perfect chief officer to enhance your yacht’s operations and safety. With our expertise, dedication, and industry insight, we ensure you’ll have the right professional on board.
Frequently Asked Questions For Hiring A Chief Officer For Your Yacht
Most frequent questions and answers
What qualifications should a chief officer have?
A chief officer should hold STCW certification and demonstrate strong skills in deck operations, safety management, navigation, and leadership.
How long does the recruitment process take?
Typically, it takes 2–4 weeks, depending on your specific needs and the availability of suitable candidates.
Can I interview multiple candidates before deciding?
Yes. We’ll present a shortlist of qualified candidates, and you’re welcome to interview them before making your choice.
Can I hire a chief officer for a temporary or seasonal position?
Absolutely. We offer flexible recruitment solutions for both temporary and permanent roles.
What level of experience is recommended?
Ideally, a chief officer should have 3–5 years of experience on yachts of similar size and function, particularly in safety and deck management.
What qualities make a great chief officer?
Exceptional leadership, decision-making, communication skills, and a proactive approach to operations and safety.
Does the chief officer manage the deck crew?
Yes, overseeing the deck crew is one of their primary responsibilities, ensuring efficient and safe deck operations.
Do you provide post-hire support?
Yes, we offer post-placement support during the onboarding period to ensure a smooth transition.
How much does it cost to hire a chief officer?
Costs vary based on the role’s requirements, experience level, and contract length. All costs are discussed transparently at the outset.
What if the chief officer isn’t the right fit?
We offer a replacement guarantee within a set period to ensure your satisfaction with the placement.