Director of Operations

Andrew Simpson Foundation : The Sailing Charity; Poole; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job description

The Andrew Simpson Foundation (ASF), based in Poole, Dorset, is a charitable organisation committed to transforming young lives through sailing and watersports. Established in memory of Olympic sailor Andrew 'Bart' Simpson, ASF offers accessible opportunities for young people, regardless of background or ability, to engage with the sport.

To fulfil its mission, ASF operates several not-for-profit centres across the UK, each providing a range of activities and courses tailored to various age groups and skill levels:

• Portland: Located at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, this centre offers world-class facilities and safe sailing conditions, with activities such as sailing, windsurfing, foiling, and paddlesports.
• Portsmouth: Situated on the shores of Langstone Harbour, ASC Portsmouth provides diverse water and land-based activities suitable for all ages and abilities.
• Reading: Based at Hangar Road, Theale, ASC Reading offers a safe inland environment for watersports and sailing activities, accessible throughout the year.
• Birmingham: As the newest addition, ASC Birmingham operates seven days a week, providing sailing and watersports opportunities in the Midlands for both beginners and experienced individuals.

In addition to these centres, ASF encompasses specialised programmes:

• Andrew Simpson Performance Academy: Operating from the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, the Performance Academy offers world-class sailing and windsurf coaching, event support, and tailored training programs aimed at advancing sailors to the next level.
• Andrew Simpson Yachting: Based at Haslar Marina in Portsmouth Harbour, Andrew Simpson Yachting provides a comprehensive range of RYA practical and theory training courses for both yachts and powerboats. The centre offers personalised packages, own boat tuition, and mile-builder events, catering to individuals seeking to enhance their maritime skills or pursue a career in yachting.
• Sail Training Trust, Portsmouth: The Sail Training Trust empowers young people from disadvantaged backgrounds through maritime training, helping them build skills, confidence, and pathways into the marine industry.
• Horizons Children’s Sailing Charity, Plymouth: Horizons Plymouth is a sailing charity that supports young people—especially from disadvantaged backgrounds—by building confidence, skills, and wellbeing through sailing and boating activities.

ASF is currently seeking a Director of Operations to join their Senior Leadership Team. This pivotal role involves managing and directing the activities of the group-wide operations teams, ensuring consistent delivery of operational strategies and risk frameworks across all ASF locations. The Director will also deputize for the CEO as required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders, including partners, suppliers, and contractors.
• Collaborate closely with the CEO and other ASF team members, such as the Head of Development, Philanthropy, Finance Manager, and Operations Teams, to seamlessly integrate operational activities in line with organisational goals.
• Lead, manage, and develop Regional Operations Managers to ensure efficient, high-quality delivery across all ASF locations and programmes.
• Oversee maintenance and development of facilities, equipment, and capital projects to ensure compliance, safety, and optimal functionality.
• Build strong relationships with partners, funders, suppliers, and authorities. Lead negotiations that support growth and sustainability.
• Manage group-wide operational budgets, improve efficiency, and contribute to long-term sustainability and strategic investment.
• Uphold high standards in safeguarding, health & safety, and regulatory compliance, promoting a culture of excellence and responsibility.
• Inspire and lead teams with a focus on collaboration, inclusion, and continuous improvement. Mentor and support senior staff development.

Candidates with experience in senior operational leadership roles, particularly within the watersports or outdoor education sectors, are encouraged to apply. To express interest, please send a CV and supporting statement outlining how you meet the role's requirements to [e-mail]. A full job description can be found on the ASF website.

How to Apply:

Please send your CV and a supporting statement outlining your suitability for the role to [e-mail].

Application deadline: Rolling applications – early submissions encouraged.

Pay: Competitive salary and benefits package

Join the Andrew Simpson Foundation—and help us transform lives through sailing.

Andrew Simpson Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Please note that only applications from UK citizens or those with the right to work in the UK will be considered.