At Vessev, we’re defining a new category of marine transport: hydrofoiling electric vessels that are genuinely creating a more liveable world. Last year, we launched our first vessel, the VS–9, and made headlines in Forbes, Electrek, New Atlas, and more. It was a big step forward, and just the beginning.
With strong momentum, growing global demand, and major scaling ahead, we’re hiring a Director of Business Development - APAC to drive revenue and lead Vessev’s commercial growth in this rapidly expanding market. Reporting to the CEO, this is a senior, high-trust role for a proven closer, someone who can convert opportunities into deals, expand into new markets, and build a high-value pipeline. While the focus is on APAC, we’re a collaborative team, and the role will have a global impact.
This is a rare opportunity to join a high-growth startup operating in a rapidly expanding space. There is so much scope to make this role your own, and we want you to create something you’re insanely proud of.
What you’ll be doing:
This is a hands-on, senior role where you’ll lead market growth and commercial strategy from the front. You’ll shape how Vessev grows, sector by sector, region by region, and partner by partner. You will play a foundational role in propelling a more liveable world with us.
You’ll find opportunities directly, structure deals, close partnerships, and represent Vessev at the highest levels. No two days will look the same. One day you’ll be meeting with a government board, the next negotiating a multi-vessel hospitality deal, or the next building relationships with new partners.
Your focus is to grow Vessev’s commercial footprint, turn opportunities into outcomes, and help us scale with purpose and momentum.
Key Responsibilities
Source and secure new commercial opportunities across government, ferry, tourism, hospitality, real estate development, superyacht, and leisure markets.
Own the end-to-end deal process – from identifying leads to negotiating and closing commercial agreements.
Develop and lead strategic partnerships that enable vessel deployments and long-term value creation.
Structure and negotiate contracts, working closely with legal and executive leadership.
Drive market expansion strategies, identifying new regions and sectors for Vessev’s growth.
Build a solid pipeline of opportunities across leasing, direct sales, and distribution within APAC while also supporting global development.
Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, product, engineering, and operations to deliver on key commercial milestones.
Track and report commercial performance, providing insight to guide executive decisions.
Represent Vessev externally with partners, governments, operators, and at industry events.
Act as a trusted commercial advisor to the leadership team.
No job too small or large - At Vessev we thrive on rolling our sleeves up to take care of the smallest details in pursuit of climbing the tallest peaks.
Travel - This role is based in New Zealand but will involve both domestic and international travel for industry events and meetings with partners and clients.
About you:
You’re commercially sharp, entrepreneurial, and deeply motivated by building something new. You know how to close deals and how to open doors. You bring energy and execution to everything you do. You build and maintain lasting relationships, which become your foundation.
This is a senior role for someone who thrives in fluid environments, operates with autonomy, and loves the challenge of scaling something from the ground up.
We’re looking for someone with:
5+ years in business development, sales, commercial strategy, or partnerships.
A proven track record of sourcing and closing strategic deals.
Confidence in navigating commercial negotiations and contract structures.
A strong strategic mindset and bias for action.
Excellent relationship-building and communication skills.
Experience working closely with C-level teams or as a founder/operator.
A collaborative, can-do approach and hunger to learn.
A deep belief in the mission, and excitement about what Vessev can become.
Experience and understanding of boating is important to success in this role.
Understanding of electric vehicles is desirable but not required.
About the space:
Today, there are over 33 million vessels worldwide, and nearly all of them run on fossil fuels. Battery-electric boats exist, but they’re held back by performance. That’s where Vessev comes in.
We’re developing technology that makes marine vessels radically more efficient, unlocking the full potential of battery electric performance across a wide range of applications. Currently, there are only 116 electric hydrofoiling vessels in the world. In a decade, they will be operating on every major body of water.
About us:
We’re here to propel a more liveable world – cleaner air, better commutes, and deeper connections with nature and each other. Our hydrofoiling electric vessels use up to 90% less energy than traditional boats, unlocking entirely new opportunities.
We’re backed by top-tier investors, including Blackbird Ventures, K1W1, Icehouse Ventures, GD1, and our team includes talent from the America’s Cup, Rocketlab, Halter, Apple, and leading climate startups. But titles don’t matter here – what matters is how we show up: with purpose, humility, and a restless optimism for what’s possible.
We’re office-first but not office-only. We believe in building together, in person, where the real magic happens. That said, we trust our team to do what’s right and we know life isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Why our people love Vessev
We’re building something different – from how we move on the water to the kind of team and workplace we’re creating.
The chance to work on technology that can drive real, lasting impact in the world
A team of hugely talented and collaborative people
20 weeks fully paid parental leave for primary caregivers, and 4 weeks for secondary (conditions apply)
Competitive salaries that reflect the value of the work
Being on the water is part of our job – from trips on our vessels to our offices that border the Tamaki River
And if the water’s where you want to be, you’ll be in good company. You’ll find no shortage of boaters, beach goers, sailors, foilers, surfers, and kiteboarders here.
Apply now
Research shows that women and other under-represented groups often only apply when they meet every requirement – even though they could be an excellent fit. If you see yourself doing great work here, but don’t tick every box, we’d still love to hear from you. We’re building a team where everyone has the chance to do their best work.
If you have questions, please send them to careers@vessev.com.