Independent Chair for Event Board
Independent Chair for Event Board of a 2026 Olympic Class Sailing Championships
The RYA has been awarded the right to host the iQFOiL World Championships, the Olympic windsurfing classes, at Weymouth & Portland in September 2026. This exciting class made it’s Olympic debut at Paris 2024, and the RYA plan to build on the success of the Formula Kite European Championships held in 2023.
We are hosting the 2026 iQFOiL World Championships to bring people together on the water, inspire future champions, and showcase windsurfing to new audiences.
We want the UK to be the world leading sailing nation. Where more people race more often, there are clear and inclusive pathways to reach your potential, and where standout performances inspire pride, passion, and a lifelong love of sailing.
Our purpose is bigger than just podiums. We exist to inspire a lifelong passion for racing, to unlock the potential of every sailor, coach, and official, and to ensure that everyone—regardless of background or ability—can find purpose, connection and fulfilment in our sport.
Working jointly with the local authority, Dorset Council, and Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy, the RYA will be responsible for the competition delivery together with ambitious sustainability and social impact agendas intended to maximise the event for a wider societal impact.
The RYA are currently looking for an enthusiastic individual to take on the role of Independent Chair of the Event Board who will provide independent leadership to ensure that the strategic and delivery objectives of the Championships are met.
This is a voluntary role for which suitable expenses will be reimbursed. It is anticipated that the board will meet virtually once a quarter until the event in September 2026.
The ideal individual will have a significant track record in management or leadership within business, social or sports sectors; have experience in the delivery of major events or social impact programmes; a commitment to building a culture that embraces difference, with an ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion; and a willingness to devote the time and effort required by the role.
For a discussion about the event and role please contact Event Director Niall McLeod niall.mcleod@rya.org.uk
The RYA is committed to equality of opportunity.
As an equal opportunity and disability confident employer, we celebrate and welcome diversity in all its forms and believe that a diverse workforce boosts innovation, productivity, and creativity.
We are dedicated to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion and strive to be an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone can be their authentic selves. We would particularly encourage applications from ethnically diverse candidates who are currently underrepresented at the RYA.
