The WPNSA, based in Portland, Dorset is the national sailing centre for the UK and a legacy venue from the London 2012 Olympic Games where it hosted the highly successful Olympic regatta. With outstanding facilities in Portland Harbour and Weymouth Bay, it is recognised as one of the world’s leading sailing venues and is home to the RYA British Sailing Team.

Alongside its national sporting role, it is a diverse not-for-profit organisation, generating its own income to fund its operations, maintenance and future development. In addition to world and national level sailing events, its activities include membership, boat storage, catering, conferences and weddings alongside on-site partners including The Andrew Simpson Foundation, Coastland College and PGL.

Chair

The WPNSA is seeking a Chair to provide leadership to the Board and help shape the organisation’s future. This is an opportunity to lead a nationally significant organisation with a unique sporting heritage, an outstanding location and a diverse range of commercial and community activities. We are looking for an individual with the judgement, leadership skills and personal gravitas to chair an effective Board, work closely with the CEO and provide strategic direction.

This is a voluntary position which requires a commitment to board meetings, regular engagement with the CEO and occasional representational activity.

Purpose

The purpose of the Chair is to:

• Lead and ensure the effectiveness of the Board and its decision making
• Provide support and constructive challenge to the CEO
• Manage Board dynamics and oversea its performance
• Guide the development of a long term vision and strategy that balances sporting excellence with commercial sustainability
• Ensure accountable oversight of the business

Eligibility

The Chair must be legally eligible to serve as a Company Director in England and Wales. Candidates must declare any conflicts of interest which will be taken into account in the recruitment process.

Application

WPNSA is committed to diversity and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.  If interested in this opportunity please email a covering letter and an up to date CV to [email protected]

The closing date is 2nd October 2026.