Assistant Project Manager hybrid; lw

Assistant Project Manager vacancy in Southampton (hybrid) (068lw)

Assistant Project Manager – Future of Navigation (Maritime)

Location:

Southampton (Hybrid – 3 days onsite + stakeholder engagement travel)

Contract:

12 Months

Sector: UK Maritime / Coastal State Services

Rate:
Confidential – can be discussed at time of application

CV deadline:
Friday 6th March 2026

An opportunity has arisen for a senior maritime professional to lead a time-critical national project shaping the future of UK coastal navigation services. This role will particularly appeal to ex‑Royal Navy, Merchant Navy and senior maritime professionals who combine command experience with structured project delivery capability and strong technical writing skills.

• Assess the UK’s current coastal navigation capability
• Investigate emerging maritime and navigation technologies
• Review international regulatory developments
• Analyse future risk and congestion challenges in UK waters

The output will be a comprehensive evidence-based report providing:

• Technical analysis
• Strategic recommendations
• Regulatory positioning advice
• A framework for the future direction of UK coastal state services

Your work will directly inform the UK’s position at international maritime forums.

The maritime environment is evolving rapidly with multiple new navigation technologies replacing legacy systems, increasingly congested sea lanes, and complex regulatory developments at international level. Without clear research, analysis, and recommendations, the UK risks falling behind in shaping international standards and protecting national maritime interests. This role exists to close those knowledge gaps.

• Lead the “Future of Navigation” project
• Conduct structured technical research into emerging navigation systems
• Liaise with key coastal and maritime stakeholders
• Engage with Lighthouse Authorities and other regulatory bodies
• Analyse international developments and technology adoption trends
• Produce high-quality written reports and recommendations
• Advise on the UK’s regulatory positioning at international forums

• Certificate of
  
  Competency:
  
  Master Mariner (Unlimited) – essential
• Command experience at sea
• Senior‑level navigation expertise
• Demonstrable project experience
• Experience engaging within government or regulatory environments

• Royal Navy (senior navigation/command roles)
• Merchant Navy
• Cruise line command professionals
• UK Hydrographic Office exposure
• Maritime regulatory or coastal state experience
• Experience in regulatory frameworks or policy development is advantageous

• Technical credibility in navigation and maritime systems
• Ability to operate both operationally and strategically
• Strong research and analytical capability
• Excellent written reporting skills
• Confidence engaging senior stakeholders
• Structured, disciplined project management approach
• Ability to translate technical insight into practical policy recommendations

Southampton-based. Hybrid working (with stakeholder engagement as required). 12‑month defined project with clear outcomes.

This is a rare opportunity to influence the future direction of UK coastal navigation capability and contribute to national representation at international maritime level.

For a confidential discussion, please apply directly to Liz Walsh at