New MD takes the helm as SeaSafe positions for future growth
After more than 33 years at the helm of SeaSafe, founder Jeremy Dale OBE Hon FNI is taking an exciting step to secure the company’s future by strengthening its leadership team with the appointment of Nigel Parkes as Managing Director.
While many people in their early seventies would be considering retirement, Jeremy is instead investing in the long-term future of SeaSafe. As part of this transition, he will assume the role of Chairman, working closely alongside Nigel during the handover before gradually taking more of a strategic, behind-the-scenes role.
Nigel Parkes brings a wealth of industry expertise and proven leadership to SeaSafe. With a career spanning three decades, he began at Ocean Safety before specialising in lifejacket manufacturing at Remploy. He went on to spend 17 years at Crewsaver and Survitec, followed by five years as Managing Director of Mustang Survival UK.
Throughout his career, Nigel 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 and professional organisations 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. His appointment further strengthens an already highly experienced management team and reinforces SeaSafe’s commitment to British manufacturing and innovation.
Commenting on the appointment, Jeremy Dale said, “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.”
Nigel said, “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.”
SeaSafe remains proudly committed to designing and manufacturing high-quality lifejackets in the UK, supplying customers across the commercial marine, emergency services, military and leisure sectors.
SeaSafe's outlook on what's next? "With Jeremy’s vision, Nigel’s proven leadership, and the continued expertise of Factory Manager Keith Friar, SeaSafe is entering an exciting new chapter—one built on experience, innovation and a shared commitment to safeguarding lives on the water for generations to come."
Exhibitor; SeaSafe Systems
While many people in their early seventies would be considering retirement, Jeremy is instead investing in the long-term future of SeaSafe. As part of this transition, he will assume the role of Chairman, working closely alongside Nigel during the handover before gradually taking more of a strategic, behind-the-scenes role.
Nigel Parkes brings a wealth of industry expertise and proven leadership to SeaSafe. With a career spanning three decades, he began at Ocean Safety before specialising in lifejacket manufacturing at Remploy. He went on to spend 17 years at Crewsaver and Survitec, followed by five years as Managing Director of Mustang Survival UK.
Throughout his career, Nigel 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 and professional organisations 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. His appointment further strengthens an already highly experienced management team and reinforces SeaSafe’s commitment to British manufacturing and innovation.
Commenting on the appointment, Jeremy Dale said, “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.”
Nigel said, “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.”
SeaSafe remains proudly committed to designing and manufacturing high-quality lifejackets in the UK, supplying customers across the commercial marine, emergency services, military and leisure sectors.
SeaSafe's outlook on what's next? "With Jeremy’s vision, Nigel’s proven leadership, and the continued expertise of Factory Manager Keith Friar, SeaSafe is entering an exciting new chapter—one built on experience, innovation and a shared commitment to safeguarding lives on the water for generations to come."
Exhibitor; SeaSafe Systems
Recommended News for You
Support agreement for five newbuild ASD tugs signed
July 9, 2026Seawork Press FP
Marine Electrician Skills Bootcamp hits 50-learner milestone
July 8, 2026Seawork Press FP
Under scrutiny as four thousand eyes watch technical inspection
July 8, 2026Seawork Press FP
Specialist finance enables new subsea services
July 6, 2026Seawork Press FP
"No guts, no Hollands glorie!" - the power of three
July 2, 2026Seawork Press FP