The RYA today (Friday 21 November) announced the appointment of Cole Agbede as a Non-Executive Director of its Board.

Cole, a Senior Associate at Warburg Pincus, was elected by the Board and brings with him extensive experience across finance, investment and commercial strategy.

Equally significant is Cole’s longstanding commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. While at London Business School, he co-founded the Black in Business Club – the first initiative of its kind at a leading business school in Europe and led the development of partnerships with organisations including Goldman Sachs, Bain and Amazon to expand opportunities for under-represented groups.

Commenting on his appointment, Cole said: “I am enthusiastic about learning more about the RYA, boating, and the community it serves. I look forward to bringing both my financial acumen and my experience in DEI leadership to the RYA Board and working collaboratively with fellow Directors to help the Association continue to thrive. I am particularly keen to support the RYA’s ongoing efforts to ensure sailing and boating are inclusive and accessible to all.”

RYA Board Re-elections

We are also delighted to confirm that Duncan Rutherford and Corrine Cunningham have been re-elected for a second term.

Both Directors were originally elected by the membership and, over the past two years, have demonstrated exceptional commitment and made significant contributions to the work of the Board.

Specifically, Duncan has excelled as a member of the Digital SteerCo and demonstrates solid counsel on organisational process representing key insight into the North region. As a qualified accountant Corinne’s experience is invaluable as a member of the Audit & Risk Committee alongside her skills in risk management and background in conferences, helping to guide the Dinghy and Watersports Show.

Future vision  

The role of the RYA Board is to supervise the management of the Association’s business and to discharge the responsibilities of the directors under the Companies Act and in compliance with the Code for Sports Governance, which sets out the levels of transparency, accountability and financial integrity required from bodies that receive Government and National Lottery Funding. 

Find out more about the role of the RYA Board.