Turning skilled craftspeople into confident, effective leaders
Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders (LSB) is a high-end naval architecture and boat-building specialist based in Auckland, employing around 50 staff and known for custom luxury superyacht tenders and performance craft. As the business scaled, more tradespeople were promoted into leadership roles—often without formal training in people management. Thrive stepped in to equip these new leaders with tools beyond their trade skills.
The Challenge
Skilled tradesmen were suddenly leading teams—but those leadership muscles weren’t built yet. With their expertise in craftsmanship, they often found themselves out-of-depth when managing people, delegation, performance, and team cohesion. Some adapted naturally, others struggled without the right support.
The Thrive Solution
Over a 12-month partnership, Luke Hill from Thrive delivered tailored coaching and leadership development designed specifically for the LSB context:
Leadership toolbox analogy: Transformed “I can build a boat” into “I can lead a team” mindsets
Practical management tools: Covering delegation, feedback, conflict resolution, and communication
Onsite coaching: Real-time advice during team meetings and on the shop floor
Monthly sessions: Building habits, reinforcing skills, and tracking progress across time
Peer support: Created a cohort of emerging leaders to learn from each other
The Impact
Thrive’s support equipped LSB’s new leaders to transition confidently from craftsmanship to leadership roles:
Stronger delegation & clarity: Leaders now run the boat-building project—not just build boats
Improved team cohesion: Teams with diverse crafts are working together more productively
Growing leadership confidence: Tradesmen are now equipped to manage their people, not just their craft
Cultural alignment: A more intentional, values-driven environment emerged across the business
Why This Worked
Industry-relevant approach: Leadership tools were tied directly to boat-building realities
Extended engagement: A year-long relationship ensured sustained growth—not just a quick fix
Skilled facilitator: Luke’s trade and leadership background meant respect on the shop floor
Ready to Equip Your Team Leaders?
If your business is growing and promoting from within, Thrive can help your tradespeople become confident, capable leaders—with real, measurable impact.
👉 Talk to Thrive and empower your next generation of leaders today.
