Fire Aid Academy is one of the UK's leading providers of specialist maritime fire fighting, emergency response and safety training.
Working with some of the world's largest cruise lines, commercial shipping companies, offshore operators and industrial organisations, we deliver realistic, practical training that prepares people to respond confidently and effectively in real emergencies.
As our business continues to grow both in the UK and internationally, we are looking for an exceptional individual to join our senior management team as our Training Manager & Senior Instructor.
This is far more than an instructor role. It is an opportunity to take ownership of our entire training function, lead and inspire our instructional team, shape the future of our training programmes and ensure we continue to deliver training to the highest possible standards. This is a unique opportunity to join an ambitious and growing organisation.
If you are passionate about developing people, maintaining exceptional quality and leading by example, we'd love to hear from you.
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The Role
Reporting directly to the Operations Director, you will have overall responsibility for the planning, management and continuous improvement of Fire Aid Academy's training department.
Whilst this is a leadership role, we are looking for someone who enjoys remaining operational and leading from the front. You will continue to deliver training courses yourself whilst overseeing the wider training operation.
Working Pattern
This is a full-time senior management position with a flexible working pattern. The successful candidate will be expected to work flexibly according to the operational needs of the business and the requirements of our training schedule.
Whilst the majority of working hours will generally be Monday to Friday, the role may occasionally require early starts, evenings, weekends and travel, depending on course schedules, client requirements and operational needs.
The successful candidate will be expected to manage their time autonomously and take ownership of ensuring the training school operates effectively and consistently.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading and managing Fire Aid Academy's instructional team.
- Managing employed and contractor instructors, technicians and staff
- Producing instructor rotas and resource planning.
- Delivering a variety of maritime, fire fighting and emergency response training courses.
- Ensuring consistency and quality across every course delivered.
- Reviewing, maintaining and updating all course materials.
- Developing new training programmes and expanding our course portfolio.
- Ensuring compliance with awarding body, ISO and regulatory requirements.
- Preparing for and supporting internal and external audits.
- Monitoring instructor performance and mentoring new instructors.
- Managing training equipment and facilities.
- Driving continual improvement throughout the Academy.
- Supporting commercial tenders and new client opportunities.
- Working closely with the senior management team to help shape the future direction of the business.
International Responsibilities
As part of Fire Aid International Training Ltd, you will also oversee the delivery of our overseas training programmes.
This will involve occasional international travel to locations including:
- North Macedonia
- Bulgaria
- France
- Other locations as required
You will deliver specialist fire guard training, mentor overseas instructors and ensure that every Fire Aid training programme is delivered consistently to the exceptionally high standards our clients expect, regardless of location.
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About You
We're looking for someone who is equally comfortable leading a team as they are standing in front of a classroom or practical training exercise.
You will be organised, approachable, professional and genuinely passionate about developing people and raising standards.
You may come from a background such as:
- Merchant Navy
- Royal Navy
- Fire & Rescue Service
- Offshore emergency response
- Maritime training
- Industrial fire protection
- Emergency services
- Health & Safety training
Above all else, we're looking for someone who shares our passion for delivering outstanding training and continually improving the learning experience for every student.
Essential Requirements
- Teaching qualification – ideally Adult Education (AET Level 3 or equivalent), minimum IMO Training Course for Instructors 6.09 (Train the Trainer)
- Maritime industry experience
- Proven experience delivering practical training.
- Excellent leadership and people management skills.
- Strong organisational and planning abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple instructors and training programmes.
- High attention to detail.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Good IT skills.
- Full UK Driving Licence.
- Willingness to travel internationally when required.
Desirable Experience & Qualifications
Experience in one or more of the following would be advantageous:
- STCW training
- Fire Fighting Instructor
- Assessor and/or IQA qualifications
- ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems
- Incident Command
- Emergency Planning
- Confined Space Rescue
- First Aid instruction
Don't worry if you don't meet every requirement, we're looking for the right person with the right attitude, leadership qualities and desire to develop.
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What We Offer
- Competitive salary of £45,000–£50,000, depending on experience.
- 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays.
- Workplace pension scheme.
- Company mobile phone.
- Paid overseas travel and expenses.
- Ongoing professional development and training.
- Opportunities to gain additional instructor and industry qualifications.
- Free on-site parking.
- Modern purpose-built maritime training facilities.
- A varied, rewarding and genuinely interesting role where no two days are ever the same.
- The opportunity to work with some of the world's leading cruise lines, commercial shipping companies and maritime organisations.
- The chance to make a genuine difference by helping train those responsible for protecting life at sea.
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How to Apply
Please send your CV together with a covering letter explaining:
- Why you're interested in joining Fire Aid Academy.
- What experience makes you the ideal candidate.
- Your salary expectations.
- Your current notice period.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Pay: £45,000.00-£50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Application question(s):
- Do you have a teaching qualification? If so, please specify
- Are you located within a 30 minute commute to Hardley Industrial Estate, Hythe, Southampton?
Experience:
- Maritime Industry: 1 year (required)
Work Location: In person
