As we welcome the new year, we’re excited to share some positive developments and leadership updates at the RYA.

In 2025, we said a fond farewell to two directors. Rob Clark, who led the Sport Development Department for the past four years, moved on to take up a new role at the Andrew Simpson Foundation. Mel Hide also departed the RYA after more than four years as Director of External Affairs. We thank both Rob and Mel for their significant contributions and wish them every success in their next chapters.

We’re delighted to announce that Nick Scott, previously Director of Racing, has been appointed as the RYA Director of Sport. Nick will oversee the work of the newly created Sport Department which brings together the former Sport Development and Racing teams. This new structure is designed to broaden participation in sailing and strengthen connected and inclusive pathways across the sport.

In addition, James Stuart, previous Director of Legal, Governance & Integrity and CEO of RYA Wales, has been named RYA Director of Corporate Affairs. In this role, James will support the work of the newly created Corporate Affairs Department, strengthening the RYA’s strategic, governance and regulatory activity as we advance into the next phase of delivering our Together on Water strategy. 

RYA CEO Sara Sutcliffe said: “As we begin a new year, these changes represent an exciting step forward for the RYA. They reflect our commitment to evolving as an organisation and ensuring we are well placed to grow participation and continue to support our members and community as we build a vibrant and inclusive future for boating”.