UK lifejacket manufacturer SeaSafe has appointed Nigel Parkes as managing director, strengthening its leadership team. Founder Jeremy Dale, who has led the business for more than 33 years, will assume the role of chairman.
Dale will work alongside Parkes during the handover period before transitioning into a strategic, advisory role to oversee the long-term future of the company.
Parkes joins SeaSafe with over three decades of experience in the marine safety sector. He began his career at Ocean Safety before specialising in lifejacket manufacturing at Remploy. He subsequently spent 17 years at Crewsaver and Survitec, followed by five years as managing director of Mustang Survival UK.
Throughout his career, Parkes has built extensive expertise in product development, manufacturing and servicing, whilst collaborating for many years with industry bodies such as ILAMA, BSI and other international regulatory bodies to help shape and maintain the highest standards of marine safety. His breadth of experience and technical knowledge have earned him a reputation as one of the marine safety industry’s most respected and accomplished leaders.
Commenting on the new appointment, Dale says: “After building SeaSafe over the past 33 years, I’m incredibly excited about what the future holds. Bringing Nigel into the team significantly strengthens our business and ensures we’re well positioned for future growth. As one of the last remaining companies to manufacture lifejackets entirely in the UK, SeaSafe is in a uniquely strong position. Together with factory manager Keith Friar, I believe we now have a level of expertise within our leadership team that is second to none in our industry.”
Parkes adds: “I’m delighted to be joining SeaSafe as managing director. I’ve known and admired SeaSafe’s reputation for many years, and it’s a privilege to become part of the team. I’m looking forward to working closely with our colleagues, customers and partners as we continue to build on the company’s success and deliver the high standards of service SeaSafe is known for.”
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