Ben William Harris
About Candidate
I’m a PADI Open Water & Specialty Instructor focused on creating confident, joyful divers through calm, patient, and inclusive teaching. I work well with people from all backgrounds – from first-time DSD students to returning divers – and draw on my Master’s in alternative education to undertake personalised, trauma-aware learning experiences that support trust, safety, and genuine enjoyment in the water.
Alongside teaching, I have experience in the yachting industry, combining strong seamanship skills with a professional, guest-focused approach. I’m motivated by roles that value community, high-quality training, and meaningful connections to the ocean.
On the side, I spend time outdoors, from swimming, running, rock climbing, to long hikes in nature. I’m an avid traveller and find fulfilment through experiencing different cultures, new cuisines, and varied walks of life. I also care deeply about social causes and often volunteer for those less able, building compassion and common ground with anyone I meet.
Education
Work & Experience
Delivered PADI Open Water, Advanced and Discover Scuba Diving programs to a wide range of students, adapting teaching styles to suit different learning needs, abilities, ages, and cultural backgrounds. Created welcoming, confidence-building environments for nervous or first-time divers, supported by clear communication and a calm, learner-centred approach whilst upholding Savedra’s high standards of professionalism and guest care within a busy 5* CDC-level dive centre.
Assisted instructors with courses and DSDs, supported student supervision, and guided certified divers on local reef, shore, and boat dives, providing thorough briefings, safety oversight, and post-dive feedback. Produced underwater photos and videos for guests, undertook daily logistics including tank loading, gear preparation, and guest equipment fitting. Carried out basic equipment servicing and provided front-of-house support for walk-ins and returning guests.
I served as Deckhand and second Steward aboard a private yacht cruising the Mediterranean, mostly Southern Italy. Deck duties include anchoring and mooring, driving the jet tender, launching and maintaining water toys (jet ski, Seabob etc), exterior cleaning and detailing, assisting the Engineer with repairs, and supporting the Captain with navigation and mooring. Steward responsibilities include food and drink service, cocktail preparation, formal table settings, cabin turnover, laundry, and guest hosting. This dual-role enhanced my adaptability, service finesse, and operational awareness across departments.
Joined for pre-charter preparations, including anchoring operations, full washdown, teak cleaning, polishing, detailing outdoor furniture, sanding the helideck, and assisting with paintwork. Contributed to high presentation standards on a large vessel under a tight turnaround.
I worked alongside the Bosun making up the deck team during a boss trip. My responsibilities included anchoring and mooring operations, assisting with crane use, operating the jet tender, Seabob, and water toys. I supported guest satisfaction, deck cleaning and maintenance, working aloft, monthly LSA and FFE drills, watch duties, and helped other departments - including assisting the Chief Engineer in replacing the generator. This role deepened my practical skills and confidence during guest operations.
After first assisting with yacht preparation in December, I was invited back to continue supporting this world-renowned sailing yacht. My work included polishing, teak cleaning, window detailing, fender maintenance, washdowns, and working aloft. This role strengthened my familiarity with large sail yacht maintenance standards and the importance of high presentation across repeat engagements.
Managed three teams of over 25 staff, alongside a rotating pool of 30-60 freelancers, across a large public training and performance venue. Oversaw multi-million-pound budgets, procurement, and coordination with external contractors. Led all technical and facilities work, including preventative maintenance, repairs, carpentry, paintwork, rigging and harness inspections, PPE checks, VHF radio management, first aid equipment, and fire safety. Maintained strong safety, compliance, and operational standards in a fast-paced environment while supporting day-to-day venue activity.
Oversaw facility operations across two multi-function venues, managing budgets, procurement, safety compliance, IT systems, and contractor relationships. Coordinated technical equipment, access and inclusion, and all health & safety protocols.
