Job Specification – JOG Sailing Manager
Organisation: JOG Yacht Racing
Position: Sailing Manager
Contract Type: Self-employed
Hours: Flexible – workload will be higher during the sailing season (spring/summer) and lighter in the winter
Location: Remote, with attendance required at committee meetings, race starts/finishes, and occasional events
About JOG
JOG Yacht Racing is one of the UK's most active offshore racing clubs, running a full programme of coastal and offshore races each season. Founded in 1950, JOG is renowned for delivering competitive yet friendly racing, supporting youth sailors through Generation JOG, and fostering a strong community spirit across its membership.
Role Overview
The Sailing Manager plays a pivotal role in ensuring that JOG racing is safe, fair, and well-organised. Acting as principal race officer for JOG races, the Sailing Manager will lead on all aspects of race management, liaise with host clubs and volunteers, and contribute to the ongoing development and growth of JOG racing.
Key Responsibilities
Race Management
· Act as principal race officer for JOG races (offshore and coastal).
· Set and amend race courses in response to weather and conditions.
· Prepare and publish race documents including Notices of Race, Sailing Instructions, and results.
· Ensure compliance with safety regulations, including risk assessments.
· Manage volunteers at race starts and finishes, ensuring duties are allocated and covered.
· Coordinate with host clubs, committees, and partner yacht clubs to deliver the race programme.
Administration & Governance
· Monitor and respond to race‑related enquiries via phone and email.
· Contribute to the preparation of the annual race calendar and supporting documentation.
· Submit annual risk assessments and ensure compliance with national/regional sailing authority requirements.
· Attend approximately six committee meetings per year, providing reports and updates.
· Work closely with the committee, Captain, and the Racing and Membership coordinator.
Club & Community Support
· Support the organisation and delivery of the Annual Awards Dinner and Prizegiving, including trophy management.
· Assist with trophy returns, engraving coordination, and presentation logistics.
· Engage with members and sailors to foster JOG's community ethos and accessible racing culture.
· Support the promotion and development of JOG racing, including input into communications.
Person Specification
Essential
· Strong knowledge of yacht racing and race management procedures.
· Experience as a race officer or demonstrable racing background.
· Familiarity with the Racing Rules of Sailing.
· Excellent organisational and communication skills.
· Competent IT skills (documents, spreadsheets, results software, email).
· Ability to manage and motivate volunteers effectively.
· Flexible approach, with willingness to work weekends during the sailing season.
· Accessibility to Cowes race HQ and ability to travel to race destinations.
Desirable
· Previous experience in sailing club or offshore race management.
· Experience with club administration or event logistics.
· Confidence working with external stakeholders (clubs, sponsors, suppliers).
· Basic financial awareness (budgeting, expenses).
· Familiarity with tools such as WordPress, Mailchimp, or race management software.
Terms
· Contract: Self-employed contractor.
· Hours: Flexible, averaging up to 3 days per week (peaks in summer, quieter in winter).
· Remuneration: circa £30,000 subject to agreement. Plus, agreed travel and general expenses.
· Duration: Ongoing, subject to annual committee review.