Organisation The Boat Race Company Ltd Salary Competitive Location Home based/London/SE Contract type Permanent (Part time) Closing date 26 November 2025 Job Description The Boat Race is an annual rowing competition between the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. First held in 1829, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious sporting events in the world, drawing a large audience both in person and via broadcast.
The Boat Race Company’s role extends beyond event delivery. We are custodians of an institution — maintaining tradition while ensuring innovation and growth. Our partnerships with CHANEL and Channel 4, and the unwavering support of the four host boroughs, ensure The Boat Race continues to thrive as a celebration of London, sport, and shared culture. Sponsorship forms the cornerstone of our revenues, with licensing and merchandise and hospitality also contributing and offering some interesting areas of growth potential. With two key dates in the near future - the Centenary of the Women’s Boat Race in 2027 and Bicentenary of the Men’s Race in 2029 - there are key points to build from to secure the medium-term future of the event
The Boat Race Company deliver the event on behalf of the Oxford and Cambridge University Boat Clubs and is a company limited by Shares established by the Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Foundation the charity to which BRCL is accountable to. The directors and trustees work collaboratively to secure the short and longer term future of The Boat Race with both university clubs.
Position Overview
The newly created role of Managing Director (MD) for The Boat Race Company Ltd (BRCL) is designed to provide operational leadership and management of the Boat Race, ensuring the successful delivery of its strategic plan as agreed by the Board. Reporting to the Chair of The Boat Race, on behalf of the Board of Directors, the MD shall be accountable for the commercial and operational success of the event. The Managing Director will act as the principal day-to-day representative of The Boat Race, both internally, leading our executive team, engaging with partners and potential partners and building strong relationships with stakeholders, ensuring the organisation continues to deliver an exceptional sporting spectacle that commands national and international attention.
We aim to foster a supportive and collaborative work environment, and this role will be pivotal in building that teamwork and communication among the small executive and volunteer team - with the challenge of a combination of remote working and office attendance. Applicants should be able to demonstrate a proven track record in a senior/ leadership role within the sporting or entertainment events industry
Do you think you could take on this exciting new role that offers an opportunity to provide operational leadership for a globally recognised British brand, preserving a unique national story while steering it confidently into a modern, changing future?