Broad and senior role acting as Chief Executive of the UK’s foremost yacht club
The Royal Yacht Squadron (RYS) is the most prestigious yacht club in the United Kingdom, with its clubhouse located in the Grade 2* listed Cowes Castle on the Isle of Wight. As a club owned and run by its members for its members, it runs a busy annual programme of high-level national and international regattas, and it is a major force in yacht racing. The RYS is Challenger of Record for the next America’s Cup.
The current Secretary will be retiring from Summer 2026 after long and distinguished service, leaving the RYS as a well-run and financially stable organisation with a well-established membership base.
Leading a small management team and responsible to the Committee through the Flag Officers, this is a wide-ranging role. Responsibilities range from overseeing regattas and cruises to maintaining high-end accommodation in the Castle, and operating it as a significant hospitality venue. Maintaining a wide range of relationships at the most senior levels (eg with the Royal Navy) is a key part of the role.
Applicants will need proven managerial, leadership and strategic skills, with demonstrated ability as leader of a small and specialist team. An enthusiasm for the sea and yachting is desirable, but personal sailing experience and knowledge is not essential. An ability to understand the governance implications of a membership organisation is, however, important.
The successful candidate will be a commercially astute self-starter, highly organised and with a focus on leadership and delivery. Sophisticated relationship skills are essential - she/he will need to be tactful and diplomatic, dealing with members who have high expectations, and able to move an agenda forward in an inclusive and consultative manner.
This is a broad and influential leadership role in an historic and internationally respected yacht club. The Secretary enjoys considerable status within yachting circles, especially with the Isle of Wight yachting community. It is a role full of interest and challenge for the right candidate.
To download further details, including how to apply, please visit www.oct-associates.co.uk. If you are unable to access the internet please call our advising consultant, David Richards, at OCT Associates on 07798 523422.
The closing date for applications is Monday 2nd February 2026