Technical and QHSE Director (W/M/X) // Orient Express Sailing Yachts

Technical and QHSE Director (W/M/X) // Orient Express Sailing Yachts

Orient Express, an artisan of travel since 1883, is a legendary brand deeply rooted in history and revered by generations past, present, and future. As a symbol of ultra‑luxury hospitality, the brand is undergoing an ambitious phase of rebirth and expansion accelerated since 2024 as a Joint Venture between ACCOR and LVMH. Its portfolio redefines luxury travel and hospitality, featuring the iconic Orient Express, the Orient Express Corinthian – the world’s largest sailing ship – and collaborations such as La Dolce Vita and new hotels like O.E La Minerva.

Job Description

Reporting to the Fleet Director, the Technical & QHSE Director is responsible for the technical supervision, operational compliance, and oversight of the Ship Manager (V.Ships Leisure) for the entire Orient Express Sailing Yachts fleet. The Director ensures safety, technical performance, and environmental compliance of the vessels, implements and monitors the Integrated Management System (Quality, Health, Safety, Environment), and acts as the key interface between the Owner and the Ship Manager, guaranteeing alignment of operations with the brand’s standards of excellence and image.

Main Responsibilities

• Monitor vessel availability, performance, and technical compliance in coordination with V.Ships Leisure.
• Oversee the planning and execution of dry‑docks, warranty works, and maintenance budgets.
• Lead technical audits and inspections (Class, Flag, Insurers).

• Ensure implementation and follow‑up of the Safety Management System (ISM, ISPS, MLC, MARPOL, ISO).
• Analyze incidents, define corrective actions, and ensure follow‑up.
• Oversee risk management, carbon footprint assessments, and environmental regulatory monitoring.

• Define KPIs and performance objectives of the ship management contract.
• Review monthly reports and arbitrate strategic technical decisions related to the fleet.
• Coordinate with V.Ships teams in charge of technical management, HSE, and compliance.

• Identify and integrate new technologies enhancing performance, safety, and environmental responsibility.
• Promote operational excellence, internal audits, and process digitalization.

• Represent the Owner before maritime authorities, classification societies, and technical partners.
• Uphold Orient Express’s standards of excellence in the technical and environmental management of vessels.

Qualifications

• Strong command of international and French maritime regulations (SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM, ISPS, MLC).
• Proven experience in fleet technical management, QHSE, and ship manager oversight.
• Ability to manage complex, cross‑functional projects and lead multi‑stakeholder interfaces.
• Fluent in English (technical and professional).
• Leadership, strategic thinking, rigor, and innovative mindset.

• Degree in Merchant Marine, Naval Engineering, or equivalent (ENSM, École Polytechnique, etc.).
• Minimum 10 years experience in technical fleet management, QHSE leadership, and ship management supervision.
• Previous experience within a shipping company or ship management organization is highly valued.

Additional Information

We are an inclusive company and our ambition is to attract, recruit and promote diverse talent.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.