Director of Sport
World Sailing is seeking a Director of Sport to join our dynamic team.
The Director of Sport is responsible for the strategic leadership, development, and performance of all sporting operations within the organisation.
Job role: Director of Sport
Posted: 17 June 2026
Closing date: 7 July 2026
Location: Based at World Sailing headquarters in London, UK/hybrid
How to apply: Applications should be sent to human.resources@sailing.org. Applicants should provide a current CV and covering letter.
Background
About World Sailing
World Sailing is the world governing body for the sport of sailing, officially recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and responsible for promoting, coordinating, and developing sailing worldwide. The organisation oversees the rules of the sport, Olympic sailing, and environmental and social responsibility initiatives that ensure sailing’s continued relevance and integrity in a changing global context.
Role Purpose
This role oversees Global Participation and Development, including development of Race Officials, Para sailing, Offshore sailing and sustainability to ensure excellence in programme delivery, athlete pathways, environmental impact and stewardship.
Reports To:
- Chief Executive Officer
Direct Reports:
- Head of International Development
- Head of Sustainability
- Race Officials Manager
- Offshore & Safety Manager
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and implement a comprehensive sports strategy aligned with organisational goals.
- Provide clear direction and performance objectives across all four departments.
- Lead annual operational planning and budgeting for sports programmes.
- Monitor and report on KPIs, outcomes, and impact.
Participation & Development
- Oversee global participation growth strategies.
- Strengthen grassroots and national pathway development structures.
- Ensure inclusive and accessible programming across demographics.
- Support coach education and athlete development frameworks.
- Build partnerships with national sailing associations and regional bodies.
Sustainability
- Lead on the co-ordination and delivery of Sustainability Agenda 2030, encompassing Environmental, Social, Governance objectives.
- Embed sustainable practices into event management and offshore operations.
Race Officials
- Oversee recruitment, training and certification targets in line with strategic objectives.
- Support professional development and succession planning within the officiating pathway.
Offshore Sailing
- Provide leadership and strategic oversight of offshore sailing programmes.
- Ensure safety, compliance, and operational excellence in offshore events.
- Strengthen international representation and competitive success.
- Develop offshore participation and talent pipelines.
Governance & Compliance
- Ensure adherence to national and international federation regulations.
- Maintain safeguarding, integrity, and safety standards.
- Support risk management across all sporting activities.
Stakeholder Engagement
- Act as a senior ambassador for the sport.
- Build relationships with national associations, athletes, volunteers, sponsors, and governing bodies.
- Represent the organisation at national and international forums.
Financial & Operational Oversight
- Manage departmental budgets and resource allocation.
- Identify funding opportunities and support grant applications.
- Drive operational efficiency and continuous improvement.
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Significant senior leadership experience within sport administration.
- Strong understanding of participation development and performance pathways.
- Knowledge of race management and officiating structures.
- Experience leading sustainability initiatives in sport or events.
- Proven ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams.
- Excellent stakeholder management skills.
- Strong financial and strategic planning capabilities.
Desirable
- Experience in offshore sailing or endurance maritime sport.
- Knowledge of international sporting regulations.
- Experience working with volunteer networks.
- Relevant degree or equivalent professional qualification.
Personal Attributes
Key Competencies
- Strategic thinking
- Leadership and team development
- Governance and integrity
- Operational excellence
- Financial acumen
- Communication and influence
- Innovation and sustainability mindset
Performance Indicators
- Participation growth metrics
- Athlete pathway progression outcomes
- Environmental sustainability benchmarks
- Officiating accreditation and retention rates
- Offshore programme performance results
- Budget performance and financial sustainability