A rapidly expanding business that links workers with superyacht jobs has registered its 100,000th crew member.
The tech platform and job board Yotspot, which is headquartered in Southampton and has a global reach, provides everything from deck-hands to captains. It has seen huge growth in the last year, cementing its place as the market leader in providing crew on the world’s biggest private yachts.
Founded in 2010, Steve Crawford and his business partner Daryl Bradley have spent the last 13 years helping people find work below deck. Last year Danielle McLaren was appointed managing director and has overseen the number of registered crew reach the 100,000 mark.
“Our platform enables job seekers to create a profile and upload their CVs, and for employers to find the team they require for running a superyacht,” says McLaren. “We invest heavily in the tech that helps maintain our position as global leaders in this field.
“There are a surprising number of roles available on board these yachts, including deckhands, stewards, bosuns, chefs, cleaners, engineers, housekeepers, paramedics, officers and captains. We also list related land-based roles.
“Some superyachts have a staff of 25 or more, which gives an indication of the size of vessels. They are generally between 30m and 120m. Candidates upload their details and based on strict criteria they are linked with roles available. We take into account their skills, experience, and the length of contract being offered.
“We also have a continually-updating verification and reference programme, which is appreciated by our clients who obviously want the best people available,” McLaren adds. “Our registered users come from every continent and on top of ensuring the platform is as good as it can be, we go around the world to meet our crew and clients.”
The global superyacht industry has an annual turnover of more than £20 billion with more than half of its turnover in Europe. The number of superyachts being produced is at an all time high and looks set to continue to rise in the coming years.
