Secretary

Guardian Jobs; Cowes; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious yacht club in Cowes seeks a Chief Executive to lead its management team and oversee regattas. The role requires proven leadership and strategic skills, with an emphasis on maintaining high-end hospitality at the clubhouse. Candidates should have enthusiasm for yachting and the ability to manage relationships with senior organizations. The challenge of this influential position offers significant status within the yachting community. Application details can be found online, closing date 2nd February 2026.

Qualifications

• Proven managerial, leadership, and strategic skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead a small and specialist team.
• Enthusiasm for the sea and yachting desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead a small management team and report to the Committee.
• Oversee regattas and cruises.
• Maintain high-end accommodation in Cowes Castle.
• Operate the castle as a significant hospitality venue.
• Maintain senior-level relationships.

Skills

Managerial skills

Leadership skills

Strategic skills

Relationship management

Job description

Broad and senior role acting as Chief Executive of the UK’s foremost yacht club

The Royal Yacht Squadron (RYS) is the most prestigious yacht club in the United Kingdom, with its clubhouse located in the Grade 2* listed Cowes Castle on the Isle of Wight. As a club owned and run by its members for its members, it runs a busy annual programme of high-level national and international regattas, and it is a major force in yacht racing. The RYS is Challenger of Record for the next America’s Cup.

The current Secretary will be retiring from Summer 2026 after long and distinguished service, leaving the RYS as a well-run and financially stable organisation with a well-established membership base.

Responsibilities

• Lead a small management team and report to the Committee through the Flag Officers
• Oversee regattas and cruises
• Maintain high‑end accommodation in Cowes Castle
• Operate the castle as a significant hospitality venue
• Maintain relationships at senior levels, e.g., with the Royal Navy

Qualifications

• Proven managerial, leadership and strategic skills
• Demonstrated ability to lead a small and specialist team
• Enthusiasm for the sea and yachting desirable (personal sailing experience not essential)
• Understanding of governance implications of a membership organisation

This is a broad and influential leadership role in a historic and internationally respected yacht club. The Secretary enjoys considerable status within yachting circles, especially with the Isle of Wight yachting community. It is a role full of interest and challenge for the right candidate.

To download further details, including how to apply, please visit www.oct-associates.co.uk. If you are unable to access the internet please call our advising consultant, David Richards, at OCT Associates on 07798 523422.

The closing date for applications is Monday 2nd February 2026.