RYA Scotland team updates

As December draws in and we look ahead to 2026, the RYA Scotland staff team are settling into some recent changes following recent departures, new appointments, and a refreshed approach to team collaboration.

In Autumn, we bid farewell to longstanding Development Manager Liza Linton, who has moved on to pastures new at Scottish ClubSport. We extend our sincere thanks to Liza for her contributions to the team, our sport, and the wider Scottish sailing community.

Brian Pahlmann has also recently moved on from his role as Regional Development Officer (North) to join the team at Sport Aberdeen. RYA Scotland is also grateful to Brian for his dedication and impact, and wish both him and Liza every success in their future endeavours.

Recently, we welcomed aboard our new Regional Development Officer (North) Leon Ward, who brings a wealth of experience from roles with the wider RYA across development and Sailability functions, and as a Powerboat Trainer. Leon’s role sits within a refreshed structure that brings together our Regional Development Officers, Pathway Development Officer, and Training Development Officer into one cohesive Sport Development Team.

Late 2026 also marked the appointment of Steph Proud as RYA Scotland’s first-ever Partnership Lead, reflecting our commitment to expanding efforts in the commercial partnership, sponsorship and relationship building space. Steph offers valuable insight from her time leading sponsorship initiatives for leading aquatic and outdoor brands, and from her time as an elite athlete in the world of swimming.

To learn more about Steph and Leon’s appointments, check out our recent article welcoming them to the team.