Job Description
Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC)
Non-Executive Commissioner (Stakeholder Engagement)
Location: Cowes, Isle of Wight
Time Commitment: Approximately eight Board meetings and three Cowes Harbour
Advisory Committee meetings per year.
Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
Cowes Harbour Commission is seeking a committed, strategically minded individual to join our Board as a Non-Executive Commissioner, with a primary focus on stakeholder engagement. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of one of the UK’s most historic and vibrant harbours, supporting its growth, governance, and strong community relationships.
About the Role
As a Non-Executive Commissioner, you will:
· Lead on strengthening engagement with a wide range of harbour stakeholders, including commercial operators, leisure users, and community groups.
· Provide constructive challenge and independent oversight during Board discussions and decision-making.
· Support the development of CHC’s long-term strategy by ensuring stakeholder perspectives are understood and reflected.
· Promote open communication, transparency, and collaboration across the harbour community.
· Participate actively in approximately eight Board meetings per year.
Ideal Candidate Profile
We welcome applications from individuals who can demonstrate:
· Strong experience or interest in stakeholder engagement, partnership development, or community liaison.
· Knowledge or experience of the commercial and/or leisure industries operating within the harbour would be advantageous but not essential.
· Excellent communication, diplomacy, and relationship-building skills.
· The ability to think strategically, provide independent judgment, and contribute positively to Board governance.
· A commitment to the values of public service, sustainability, and the long-term interests of Cowes Harbour.
What We Offer
· An influential and rewarding voluntary role contributing to the stewardship of a key local asset.
· The chance to collaborate with a motivated and diverse Board of Commissioners.
· Opportunities to shape policy, drive positive change, and strengthen the harbour’s dialogue with its users and community.
How to Apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and what you would bring to the role to chair.chc@cowes.co.uk.
For further information about the Cowes Harbour Commission, please visit:
cowesco.uk
Application Deadline: 06 February 2026
Join us in supporting Cowes Harbour’s future and ensuring its users and community remain at the heart of its development.