November has seen two new staff members join the RYAS team, with Jamie Rodgers joining as Pathway Sailing Officer, and Philippa Howie taking up the role of Communications & Engagement Officer.
Both individuals come from a sailing background, eager to share their love for the sport, and help deliver positive boating experiences here in Scotland.
As a keen RS400 sailor Jamie is often found on the water, with sailing shaping much of his previous experience.
From working with the Scouts in Lochgoilhead as their Chief RYA Training Centre Instructor, to working more recently within the RYA Racing Department, he’ll be bringing a deep understanding of people and coaching development.
Joining the Scotland team from his most recent role as RYA Coach CPD coordinator, Jamie is ready to share an insight gained from delivering World Class CPD opportunities across the coaching pathway, from grass root participation right up to the British Sailing Team.
In his spare time Jamie is a keen photographer, often finding himself out and about in some amazing places which lend themselves to taking a picture. He’s also got his hands full with his two energetic kids who he looks forward to getting on the water in years to come.
Ready to bring his sense of fun and creativity to the table, Jamie says he’s eager to maintain and build new relationships in the Scottish boating and racing community.
“Understanding the needs and wants of those around me is fundamental to how I work.
“I’m excited to be part of the RYA Scotland team, I’m fortunate to live and work in a fantastic part of the world doing something I enjoy.
“I’m eager to get out and about across Scotland to provide a thriving and competitive racing experience across the sailing pathway.”
Philippa Howie joins as Communication & Engagement Officer
Philippa is also keen to apply her skillset to help promote boating, with a longstanding passion for sports including sailing through her involvement with the Cadets at Solway Yacht Club.
Her wider interests led to an education in sport management and journalism, following which she has previously been working in radio as a local news and sport reporter in Dumfries and Galloway.
Philippa also volunteered at several sailing Championships, including two Scottish Challenger Opens, which opened her eyes to the inclusivity on offer in boating, subsequently inspiring an undergraduate assignment at Edinburgh University focussed on the rise and accessibility of leisure sailing in the UK.
Outside of work, Philippa enjoys taking on new challenges. She completed her first marathon earlier this year, and is now working on her cycling in the hope of completing a duathlon in the Autumn.
Keen to bring her best to RYAS, she said:
“I’m excited to bring my positive attitude to the RYAS team, and keep expanding my own skills and capabilities, fuelled by a genuine passion for boating.
“I’ve loved seeing the impact sailing has made on so many people through my own eyes, and can’t wait to help promote the many positives the sport offers to others.”
Have you got a passion for boating? Find out more about RYA Scotland and how we can help improve your time afloat.
