Head of Sea Sports Academy for January 2026

Stonyhurst International School, Penang; Malaysia; On-site; MYR 200,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

An international school in Penang is looking for a Head of Sea Sports Academy to design and manage all programs in a new facility focusing on sailing, kayaking, and marine education. The ideal candidate will have experience in coaching and team leadership, along with a recognized instructor qualification. This is a unique opportunity to shape a center of excellence for sea sports in Malaysia.

Qualifications

• Experienced in youth and adult coaching.
• Proven team leadership and communication skills.
• Knowledge of safety operations and equipment maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the coaching team across all sea sports.
• Ensure high standards of safety and operational management.
• Develop training sessions and community initiatives.

Skills

Team leadership

Communication skills

Coaching experience

Knowledge of boat maintenance

CPR/First Aid certified

Education

Recognised sailing or sea sports instructor qualification

Job description

Head of Sea Sports Academy for January 2026

Stonyhurst International School Penang is delighted to share an exciting opportunity in partnership with Ignite, the organisation leading the development and management of a world-class Sea Sports Academy in Penang. Situated in Seri Tanjong Pinang, this new facility will provide exceptional experiences in sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and marine education. The Academy will offer a comprehensive programme — from beginner to advanced levels — serving both Stonyhurst pupils and the wider community. This is a unique opportunity to shape a new centre of excellence for sea sports in Malaysia.

Located on the island of Penang, the Academy benefits from a beautiful tropical setting with a warm climate and year-round opportunities for sea sports. Penang is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, welcoming international community, and outstanding quality of life. With its mix of vibrant city life, tranquil coastline, and world-famous cuisine, it is an exceptional place to live and work.

The Role

The Head of Sea Sports Academy will report directly to Ignite, overseeing the design, delivery, and management of all Academy programmes and operations. The role will work in close collaboration with Stonyhurst International School Penang to support pupil participation and integration within the school’s co-curricular framework.

• Leading and managing the coaching team across all sea sports disciplines.
• Ensuring high standards of safety, equipment maintenance, and operational management.
• Developing training sessions, camps, and community initiatives.
• Overseeing pupil participation, assessment, and progression.
• Coordinating with both Ignite and school leadership on programme design and strategic development.

The Candidate

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic sea sports professional with the passion and expertise to inspire young people and promote marine education. The ideal candidate will have:

• A recognised sailing or sea sports instructor qualification.
• Experience in youth and adult coaching.
• Proven team leadership and communication skills.
• Knowledge of boat maintenance and safety operations.
• Powerboat handling and CPR/First Aid certification.

The Programme

The Academy’s curriculum will take pupils on a structured journey — from foundational water safety and swimming through to sailing, kayaking, and SUP. Advanced modules include leadership, environmental stewardship, and marine conservation, helping pupils to develop confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong respect for the sea.

This position is managed and overseen by Ignite, in collaboration with Stonyhurst International School Penang.