We are seeking suitable people to undertake the following two voluntary roles: Safeguarding Director and Treasurer.
About Us
Paddle Cymru is the National Governing Body for paddlesports and recreational paddling in Wales. We are an organisation of over 4,000 members, with 42% female members.
We are committed to advancing the sport through inclusive participation, strategic development, and environmental responsibility. As an NGB, we serve a diverse community of paddlers, clubs, coaches, and volunteers, working collaboratively to promote safe and equitable access to Welsh waterways.
Our remit encompasses the development of grassroots engagement, the support of high-performance athletes, and the delivery of national initiatives that reflect our values of inclusivity, sustainability, and excellence. We work in close partnership with Sport Wales, local authorities, and a range of community and environmental organisations to ensure our programmes are impactful and far-reaching.
Paddle Cymru is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors who provide strategic oversight and ensure that our operations align with our mission and objectives. We are now seeking to appoint new Board members who bring diverse perspectives, professional expertise, and a shared commitment to the growth and integrity of paddlesport in Wales.
The Board Structure
The Board of Paddle Cymru consists of nine Board members, who are a mix of Independent members who bring a range of skills, and elected members, appointed by the membership of Paddle Cymru. The Board is led by a Chair who is an Independent member.
All of these appointments are subject to AGM approval.
The Role of the Board
The Board of Paddle Cymru provides leadership to the organisation within a framework of effective and prudent controls, ensuring that risks are properly assessed and managed.
They are responsible for approving and monitoring the company’s strategic plans, ensuring sufficient financial and human resources are in place to achieve its objectives, and evaluating management performance. Additionally, the board establishes the company’s values and standards while ensuring its obligations to stakeholders and others are clearly understood and fulfilled.
Directors have statutory responsibilities, which include the following:
* Acting in accordance with the Articles and using their powers solely for the purposes for which they were granted;
* Promoting the success of the organisation to achieve its stated objectives;
* Exercising independent judgment in decision-making;
* Applying reasonable care, skill, and diligence in their duties;
* Refraining from accepting benefits that could lead to conflicts of interest;
* Declaring any conflicts of interest to the other directors.
Responsibilities
Each Board member is expected to apply their specific skills, knowledge, and experience to contribute effectively and assist the Board in making informed decisions.
For the Treasurer role, this will involve:
* Ensuring, with the Chair and Chief Executive, that Paddle Cymru discharges its duties in a legal and effective manner;
* Scrutinising Board papers, attending Board meetings and participating in discussions to ensure the effective governance of Paddle Cymru;
* Bringing independent judgement to the decision making processes of the Board;
* Ensuring that the Paddle Cymru planning and budgeting processes are conducted in accordance with the Articles and governance policies of the Company;
* Ensuring that Paddle Cymru develops and implements necessary and appropriate policies;
* The role requires attendance at monthly Board meetings, participation in Board committees, as agreed, and, occasional attendance at events to represent Paddle Cymru;
* Provide strategic oversight of the organisation’s finances to support long-term sustainability;
* Ensure compliance with financial policies, legal obligations, and reporting requirements;
* Support the development and review of budgets, accounts, and financial planning;
* Present financial information to the Board in a clear and accessible manner;
* Contribute to sound financial decision-making in line with the organisation’s mission and values.
For the Safeguarding Director role, this will involve:
* Attending Board meetings as the safeguarding representative and raise and champion safeguarding issues within the Board, ensuring that Paddle Cymru maintains the highest levels of active engagement and best practice;
* Providing strategic leadership and expertise within the area of safeguarding and child protection;
* Reviewing and providing input into policy documents and advise on safeguarding issues arising within the sport;
* Working closely with the Paddle Cymru National Safeguarding Lead, providing them with support, where required, and assist the Board in monitoring their safeguarding work;
* Attending the CPSU Working Group and helping to progress the sportʼs Safeguarding Strategy and Action Plan;
* Be a member of Paddle Cymru Safeguarding Case Management Group and consider safeguarding cases as and when required; and attending other relevant meetings as and when they are required with Sport Wales and the CPSU.
Our People
People are at the heart of Paddle Cymru and are fundamental to the successful delivery of our strategic ambitions.
Our organisation is powered by a dedicated team of staff, volunteers, and Board members who bring passion, professionalism, and a deep commitment to paddlesport in Wales.
Our staff team works across a range of functions including development, safeguarding, communications, and performance. They are responsible for delivering high quality programmes, supporting our members and clubs, and ensuring that our operations are efficient, inclusive, and aligned with our values.
Our Board of Directors provides strategic leadership and governance, ensuring that Paddle Cymru remains accountable, forward-thinking, and responsive to the needs of our community. Board members bring a diverse range of skills and experiences, and we are committed to further strengthening this diversity through inclusive recruitment practices.
Together, our people form a collaborative and resilient community, united by a shared vision to make paddlesport accessible, safe, and inspiring for all.
Time Commitment
Board members are expected to attend scheduled Board meetings throughout the year and to actively contribute to the strategic leadership of Paddle Cymru. While we recognise that exceptional circumstances may occasionally prevent attendance, we trust our Board members to prioritise their commitment to the organisation wherever possible.
Term of office
Appointments to the Board are made for an initial term of four years from the date of appointment. Subject to mutual agreement and continued eligibility, Board members may be reappointed for one additional term of four years.
Who Can Apply
To be considered for this position, you must be independent from the structure of Paddle Cymru.
Independence is classed as:
* A person, who is not a member of any committee within Paddle Cymru, other than a committee of the Board, established by the Board;
* a director of, or a member of any committee established by, any National Association;
* a chair or secretary or treasurer of any Member club;
* or an individual whose primary employment or source of income is a paddlesport trading activity.
How to Apply
Please submit the following:
Your CV, including details of relevant experience and qualifications. A covering letter highlighting your relevant experience, and suitability for the role.
Submit your CV and covering letter to us by emailing Suzanne Parkin suzanne.parkin@paddlecymru.org.uk.
Closing date for applications is 6pm, 27th June 2025.
Further Information
Should you require any further information on the organisation or wish to discuss the role, please contact Kerry Chown, Chair, at kerry.chown@paddlecymru.org.uk
Equal Opportunities and Inclusivity Statement
Paddle Cymru is firmly committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion across all areas of our work. We actively seek to create an environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute.
We recognise the importance of addressing under-representation within our sport and organisation, and we particularly encourage applications from individuals belonging to groups that are currently underrepresented in paddlesport and governance roles.
All appointments will be made on the basis of merit, and candidates will be assessed fairly and transparently in accordance with our values and commitment to inclusive practice.
If you would like to apply in an alternative format or require adjustments during the application process, please contact us at Admin@paddlecymru.org.uk