When it comes to distance learning, you want to be sure the course is current and well-informed by people with unrivalled industry experience. This is why our courses are designed by the best in the business – such as Alan Dale, the Course Director for our Superyacht Management Diploma – to provide you with the practical insider knowledge that will enhance your maritime career development.
Who is Alan Dale?
A well-respected, professional marine engineer in the superyacht industry, Alan Dale has over 20 years’ experience as a seagoing engineer and holds a British Class One Engineering ticket and has a further 20 years superyacht management experience. He is also a member of the MCA committee, which involves developing the new qualification standards for yacht engineers.
Alan is currently Fleet Manager at Burgess Yachts, which specialises in yachts of over 30 metres (100 feet). Founded in 1975, the company is renowned for its professional yachting services – leveraging its expertise to guide clients through every aspect of the yachting experience including sale and purchase, new construction, charter and operational yacht management. Since joining in 1998, Alan has brought his expertise with ISM and a wealth of practical experience to his role at the global superyacht industry leader.
We spoke to him about how his experiences have helped shape the course – and how it can help students excel in their maritime careers.
How will the Superyacht Management Diploma help me excel in my career?
When considering a career ashore it is important to be able to convince your potential employer that you have fully considered the implications of the move you are about to make.
Completing the course will show the employer that you are serious in your consideration.
How will the Superyacht Management Diploma help me transition into a shore-based role?
The management course will not make you into an instantaneous manager but can give you an insight into the role.
Why is the fact that the Course Authors are all active industry experts so important?
The industry is a constantly changing arena with new legislation being introduced almost monthly. It is important that the authors maintain both their industry knowledge and experience in order to keep the course content current.
How did you get into the industry and work your way up to where you are now?
I spent 20 years working in the cruise ship industry as a senior engineer. I moved into yacht management 20 years ago after working ashore implementing the ISM code for the cruise ship company I worked for.
I began by implementing ISM with Burgess who I now work for. I am where I am now because of constantly striving to improve both my own position and also the operation of the yachts under my management.
What are your ‘top 5 tips to achieve your dream role in the industry?
- Be realistic – you are not going to be offered the salary you may get working onboard. You will have to pay income tax. That all takes adjustment.
- Don’t try and change the industry to suit your own ideals but be prepared to adapt yourself to the needs of the industry.
- Take every challenge one step at a time. Don’t try and run before you can walk.
- Be prepared to be a team player. Communication is a key tool for success.
- Yacht Management is not a 9 to 5 job. Be ready to be run ragged.
The course
The Diploma in Superyacht Management is a progression from our successful Diploma in Superyacht Operations and has been designed to cover the specialist knowledge required by those currently working in, or making the transition to, the yacht management sector or its divisions in a shore-based role.
Module subjects include ownership structures, personnel, logistics and safety management – along with other essentials such as technical management, insurance, budgeting and charter management.
This is what student Simon Dawson had to say about the course:
“The Superyacht Management Diploma course is extremely beneficial and useful in the field. I would not hesitate to recommend this course and training academy to junior members of the yachting industry and any individual looking to enter yacht management as a career. I hope this academy goes from strength to strength.”
To find out more about the Superyacht Management Diploma, please download the brochure or contact the course account manager Matthew Elliott on +44 (0)1252 739770 or email him at matthew@maritimetrainingacademy.com.