Newcastle RNLI is looking for a new Lifeboat Operations Manager

Newcastle RNLI is looking for a new Lifeboat Operations Manager to lead the volunteer team who provide search and rescue cover for the scenic coastal area in County Down.

The Lifeboat Operations Manager provides leadership for the station's operations team, ensures that all operational activities are carried out to maintain the lifeboat and associated equipment, so they are in a constant state of readiness for launching, and they are responsible for authorising the launch of a lifeboat.

The role is best suited to someone living or working within the Newcastle area or nearby. The ideal candidate will be a team player and a good communicator with leadership skills. While full training is provided for the role, having some local maritime and RNLI knowledge along with IT literate skills, is an advantage.

The lifeboat crew are all volunteers, headed up by the Lifeboat Operations Manager and Launch Authorities and supported by a Shore Crew team. All lifeboat and shore crew follow the RNLI's Competency Based Training Scheme and respond to pagers when there is a request to launch the lifeboats. The wider team includes volunteer fundraisers, shop volunteers and youth education presenters.

Phillip Johnston, RNLI Area Operations Manager said: 'This is an exciting time to come and lead the team at Newcastle RNLI. The station's team is working hard to get a new Atlantic 85 lifeboat on service before the end of this year, heralding a new chapter in lifesaving.

'The role of Lifeboat Operations Manager is a crucial one at a lifeboat station. This person helps to save lives at sea by carrying out the day-to-day management of the lifeboat station. They lead the operations team in managing the station personnel and volunteers and they work to ensure regular meetings are held with the operations team. They also liaise and maintain close links with all local emergency services and represent the RNLI's interests locally in all operational matters.

'Volunteering in this role will see the successful candidate make a difference in their local community, saving lives while learning new skills. They can gain management experience through leading a diverse team while receiving training on operational decision making and volunteer management. This is a busy but rewarding role for the right candidate and I would encourage anyone who thinks they may have the time and the skills, to please put their application in.'

To find out more and apply, see: Lifeboat Operations Manager - Newcastle Co Down

The closing date for applications is Sunday, 16 November.