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Welcome to the team: meet our newest RYA NI staff members

We're delighted to introduce two fantastic new members who have recently joined the RYA NI team.

Welcome To The Team

The RYA Northern Ireland team is growing, and we are thrilled to introduce two fantastic individuals who have recently come on board. Whether out on the water or keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes, Jordan and Catherine have both hit the ground running.

Catherine Burns

If you have contacted the RYA Northern Ireland office recently, there is a very good chance you have already been helped by Catherine. Since joining in an administrative capacity, Catherine has done a wonderful job of keeping the office running smoothly, and her positive energy and efficiency have been felt across everything she turns her hand to.

Catherine has already been a familiar and enthusiastic presence at some of our most important events, helping out at the RYA NI Business Club launch at Room2 Belfast and the Women on Water Festival — occasions where her commitment to the organisation's work shone through.

With a keen background in sailing herself, Catherine is a natural fit for the RYA NI family, and we know she will continue to play an invaluable part in the team in the months ahead.

Jordan Conway

Jordan joins RYA Northern Ireland on a maternity cover basis, as development Officer. With a degree in Early Childhood Studies and approximately eight years of experience working as a classroom assistant, Jordan brings a genuine warmth and people-centred approach that sits naturally alongside the values of our organisation.

Having made the move into the sports industry in August 2025, Jordan has settled into the role seamlessly. Sailing is very much at the heart of her life outside of the office: a Senior Instructor and Race Coach, she also helms her own Flying Fifteen and serves as Chief Sailing Instructor at Strangford Sailing Club, a club close to many in the RYA NI community.

Jordan's commitment to water safety extends far beyond her coaching roles. As a volunteer with the RNLI shore crew team, she is a qualified Head Launcher and Tractor Driver. A dedication to the wider maritime community that speaks for itself. We are absolutely delighted to have her with us.

Please join us in welcoming both Jordan and Catherine to the RYA Northern Ireland team. We look forward to everything they will contribute to sailing and boating across Northern Ireland.