Project Manager (Quality Control)

Project Manager – Quality Control (Shipyard / Refit)

Location: Naples, Italy

Employer: My client (leading multi-sector shipyard group)

Overview

My client operates a major Mediterranean shipyard specialising in the repair, maintenance, and refit of a diverse fleet, including commercial vessels, government ships, and high-value superyachts. The facility combines heavy engineering capability with dedicated superyacht refit services, positioning it as a hybrid refit hub delivering complex, multi-disciplinary projects.

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Project Manager – Quality Control to oversee and drive quality standards across refit and repair projects. This role is critical in ensuring that all works—ranging from large-scale commercial repairs to high-specification yacht refits—are delivered in line with contractual, regulatory, and client expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and enforce quality control processes across multiple concurrent projects within the shipyard
• Act as the primary point of accountability for inspection, testing, and acceptance criteria throughout project lifecycles
• Ensure compliance with classification societies , flag state requirements, and international maritime standards
• Develop and implement quality assurance plans (QAPs) and inspection & test plans (ITPs)
• Coordinate closely with production, engineering, and subcontractors to ensure adherence to defined quality benchmarks
• Oversee defect identification, root cause analysis, and corrective actions
• Manage client and surveyor relationships with a focus on transparency and technical credibility
• Conduct regular audits of workshops, processes, and documentation to maintain consistent standards
• Support project teams in balancing time, cost, and quality constraints , with a strong emphasis on right-first-time delivery
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across both commercial vessel and superyacht refit activities

Candidate Profile

• Proven experience as a Project Manager or Quality Manager within ship repair, shipbuilding, or refit environments
• Strong understanding of both commercial vessel operations and superyacht standards (desirable)
• In-depth knowledge of marine engineering systems, structural works, and outfitting processes
• Familiarity with major classification societies (e.g. Lloyd’s Register, DNV, Bureau Veritas)
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects in a fast-paced shipyard environment
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, particularly in quality deviation and non-conformance management
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with clients, surveyors, and technical teams
• Fluency in Italian is mandatory , with strong professional English also required

Key Attributes

• Detail-oriented with a rigorous approach to quality and compliance
• Comfortable operating across both heavy industrial and high-specification luxury environments
• Proactive, hands-on, and able to challenge standards where necessary
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence cross-functional teams

Why Apply

This is a unique opportunity to join a shipyard that combines deep engineering capability with a growing presence in the superyacht refit sector . The role offers exposure to a broad spectrum of vessel types and technically demanding projects, making it ideal for candidates seeking both variety and complexity in their work.