Non-Executive Commissioner (Stakeholder Engagement)

Cowes Harbour Commission; East Cowes; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A local harbour authority in East Cowes seeks a committed individual for the role of Non-Executive Commissioner. This voluntary position involves leading stakeholder engagement and providing strategic oversight during Board meetings. The ideal candidate should demonstrate experience in stakeholder relationships and possess excellent communication skills. This role offers the chance to contribute significantly to the development and governance of Cowes Harbour, ensuring community engagement and sustainability remain central to its mission.

Benefits

Influential voluntary role

Collaboration with diverse Board

Opportunities to shape policy

Qualifications

• Strong experience or interest in stakeholder engagement.
• Knowledge of commercial and/or leisure industries is advantageous.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead on strengthening engagement with harbour stakeholders.
• Provide independent oversight during Board discussions.
• Support long-term strategy by ensuring stakeholder perspectives are reflected.
• Promote open communication and collaboration across the community.

Skills

Stakeholder engagement

Relationship-building

Strategic thinking

Excellent communication

Job description

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 [e-mail].

For further information about the Cowes Harbour Commission, please visit: https://www.cowes.co.uk/about-us/jobs/

Application Deadline: 07 February 2026

Join us in supporting Cowes Harbour’s future and ensuring its users and community remain at the heart of its development.