Production Manager

About Vessev

Vessev is creating a new kind of marine transport: electric hydrofoiling vessels that are designed to be better for people and the planet. Built in Aotearoa, the boats rise above the water using advanced hydrofoils, control systems, and electric propulsion.

With strong traction, international growth ahead, and important milestones on the horizon, the company is hiring a Production Manager to strengthen and scale production operations while continually improving standards and execution.

This is a unique chance to join an ambitious Kiwi startup at an early stage and help shape the role, the systems, and the outcomes you deliver.

Role Overview

The position suits someone who thrives on bringing structure to fast-moving, complex work. You will oversee the assembly and upkeep of hydrofoiling electric boats and related technology packages, while leading specialist teams across boatbuilding, machining, mechanical work, and electrical work to ensure every build meets high standards for quality, performance, and reliability.

Production Planning and Operations

• Direct a specialist team of boat builders, machinists, and mechanical and electrical technicians to hit aggressive build targets and challenging deadlines.
• Organise and oversee day-to-day vessel production and technology deliverables so customer timelines and delivery commitments are met.
• Track production flow and update schedules as needed to improve output and reduce idle time.
• Make sure labour, materials, equipment, and other resources are assigned efficiently.
• Handle purchasing and stock control so the right materials and components are available when needed.
• Work with engineering, design, and sales teams to keep production priorities aligned across the business.
• Keep stakeholders informed about progress, risks, and operational challenges.

R&D and Project Management

• Coordinate complex, multi-disciplinary work streams with overlapping priorities.
• Maintain project timelines to support on-time parts delivery.
• Back research and development activity and allocate people and resources appropriately.
• Adjust build methods to incorporate new technology and contribute to new product development and optimisation work.
• Partner with design teams to turn 3D surface models into parts that can actually be manufactured.
• Review production data and performance indicators to spot opportunities to cut cost and improve efficiency.

Quality, Safety, and Compliance

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to fix production issues and put corrective actions in place.
• Ensure work complies with health, safety, environmental, and maritime requirements, while aiming well above minimum standards.
• Keep production and quality records accurate and up to date.
• Run toolbox talks, safety checks, and incident reviews.

Budget and Resource Management

• Support the preparation and management of production budgets and operating expenses.
• Track labour and manufacturing spend against financial goals.
• Reduce waste and improve how materials are used.
• Coordinate maintenance needs for boats and production facilities.

About You

You do not need to be an expert in hydrofoiling or electric vehicles, but you do need to lead decisively, pay close attention to detail, and work well with people. The ideal candidate is a strong problem-solver who can help teams deliver under pressure and against tight timelines.

Experience and Attributes

• At least 8 years of experience in production management, construction management, or a similar role in a manufacturing setting.
• Strong capability in managing complex projects, deadlines, and cross-functional teams.
• Exposure to new product development and handling long lead times.
• Demonstrated success in developing, supporting, and retaining talent across multiple disciplines.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and production specifications.
• Comfort with rapid changes when R&D teams revise parts and new construction methods are needed quickly.
• Excellent problem-solving, organisation, and communication skills.

Bonus Experience

• Experience in marine, aerospace, or transport sectors.
• Good knowledge of boatbuilding or composite manufacturing.
• Previous work in a startup or fast-growth environment.

About the Company

Vessev is focused on moving people and ideas forward in a cleaner, more connected way. Its hydrofoiling electric vessels can use up to 90% less energy than conventional boats, opening up new possibilities for transport and recreation.

The team is supported by leading investors including Blackbird Ventures, and includes people with experience from the America's Cup, SpaceX, Rocket Lab, Halter, Apple, and prominent climate startups. The culture values purpose, humility, and practical optimism over titles.

The company follows an office-first, not office-only, approach and believes important work gets done best together in person, while still trusting employees to balance life and work responsibly.

Why People Enjoy Working Here

• The opportunity to build something genuinely different, from the product itself to the workplace culture.
• Work that can create meaningful, lasting impact.
• A highly capable and collaborative team.
• 20 weeks of fully paid parental leave for primary caregivers and 4 weeks for secondary caregivers, subject to conditions.
• Competitive pay that reflects the value of the role.
• Water-based experiences are part of the job, including time on vessels and offices near the Tamaki River.
• The workplace includes many boating, sailing, surfing, foiling, beach-going, and kiteboarding enthusiasts.

Application Notes

Applicants should submit a CV and a brief cover letter explaining who they are and why the role appeals to them. The company encourages candidates who may not meet every requirement to still apply if they believe they can do strong work in the role.