RYA Scotland Welcomes New Board Members: Laura Webb and Glenn Porter

RYA Scotland is delighted to welcome Laura Webb and Glenn Porter to the Board of Directors, offering extensive expertise across partnerships and communications, governance operations and community engagement.

Welcoming Laura Webb – Honorary Secretary

Laura joins the Board bringing extensive experience in transformational change, operations and delivery management across multiple sectors. Formerly Chief Delivery Officer at Changeworks, one of Scotland’s largest social enterprises, Laura has held roles spanning consultancy, operational leadership and organisational development. Based in Dunkeld, she is also an enthusiastic sailor, having cruised on the West Coast, raced both on- and offshore, and completed Leg 3 of the Clipper Round the World Race.

Speaking on her appointment, Laura said:

“The opportunity was perfect timing for me! I was eager to volunteer as a non-exec Board member for an organisation that was involved with communities and being active, and related to my interests. 

“I’m really looking forward to meeting new people, listening to and shaping ideas, developing great, effective relationships and having fun both on and off the water.”

Laura’s broad skill set and passion for community‑centred activity will play a valuable role in shaping RYA Scotland’s strategic development and operational effectiveness.

Welcoming Glenn Porter – Director for Communications and Partnerships

Joining the board as Director for Communications and Partnerships, Glenn brings a wealth of experience from both the marine and education sectors. Having worked his way up the ranks in the youth sailing field, Glenn now leads Ocean Sailing Scotland, serving as Principal Skipper alongside working with Britsail at Kip Marina and volunteering on two sailing club committees.

He also heads up Lewis Learning, an established multi sector education and consultancy business.

Speaking on joining the board, Glenn said:

"Having been involved in the RYA Scotland Cruising and General Purpose Committee for a number of years I've been inspired by the often complex work that is undertaken to protect boaters rights over such a broad spectrum of users. When the opportunity to join the volunteer board as Communication and Partnerships director arose it seemed a perfect match with my background, and desire to give back to the next generation of watersports users."

Glenn’s combined background in water sports, coaching, organisational development, commercial partnerships and community focused training positions him well to enhance RYA Scotland’s communications and build strong partnerships across Scotland’s boating community.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Outgoing Board Members

RYA Scotland extends sincere thanks Katy Wedderburn and Stew Ainslie and for their dedicated service during their time on the Board as our outgoing Honorary Secretary and Director for Communication respectively. Their commitment, leadership and contributions have helped guide the organisation through significant developments, and their impact will continue to be felt across the boating community.

With Glenn and Laura joining the Board, expertise remains strong, ensuring the organisation remains forward‑thinking, community‑focused and well‑positioned to support safe, rewarding and accessible boating throughout Scotland.