National Open Water Strategy Lead

Swim England; Nanpantan; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Swim England, the national governing body for swimming in England, is seeking a strategic National Open Water Manager to lead the development and delivery of open water swimming across England.

In this role you will champion Swim England as the national authority, collaborate with clubs, venues, partners and stakeholders to create safe, inclusive and accessible opportunities while guiding policy, programmes and partnerships that connect participation, performance and water safety.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of open water swimming landscape and safety factors.
• Ability to develop and deliver a clear strategic vision.
• Experience influencing policy across sport, environment, health and government.
• Excellent national-level communication and representation skills.
• Knowledge of health and safety, environmental regulation, and water quality.
• Understanding of sports development and participation growth.
• Strong stakeholder management with local authorities and agencies.
• Collaborative cross-team working ability.

Responsibilities

• Lead Swim England as the national leadership organisation for open water swimming.
• Design and deliver participation programmes to grow open water swimming.
• Coordinate activity across clubs, events, coaching and workforce development.
• Support integration of participation, water safety and health initiatives.
• Develop and maintain guidance for clubs, coaches, leaders and event organisers.
• Represent Swim England at national forums and partner groups.
• Develop policy positions and advocacy materials for the organisation.
• Build relationships with partners including water companies and enviromental agencies.
• Engage with the wider open water community to drive growth and innovation.
• Promote Swim England values in all interactions.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Stakeholder management

Policy development

Communication skills

Open water safety

Government relations

Collaboration

Job description

Swim England, the national governing body for swimming in England, is seeking a strategic National Open Water Manager to lead the development and delivery of open water swimming across England.

In this role you will champion Swim England as the national authority, collaborate with clubs, venues, partners and stakeholders to create safe, inclusive and accessible opportunities while guiding policy, programmes and partnerships that connect participation, performance and water safety.