ASTO (Association of Sail Training Organisations) is seeking a General Manager, reporting to a Board of Trustees, to run all aspects of this significant national charity. This is an exciting opportunity to take a leading role in building the profile of the UK Sail Training sector and to support Sail Training by developing best practice and increasing its impact.
ASTO is the umbrella body for Sail Training in the UK. We support over 30 separate charities which between them take over 10, 000 people to sea each year for personal development.
People familiar with the Sail Training sector know what an incredible impact it can have, in particular in developing teamwork, communication skills, resilience and physical and mental wellbeing. In the light of the devastating effect the pandemic has had on people’s mental and physical welfare, the need for “Blue Health” (the positive impact of being on and around water) has never been more important. This role is a genuinely exciting opportunity to spearhead our drive to bring the benefits of Sail Training to a wider audience. ASTO supports our members in this work with grants, events and training and is the voice of Sail Training nationally. Further information about ASTO and Sail Training is on our website www.uksailtraining.org
We are looking for a highly motivated self-starter with the drive and vision to further develop ASTO. A knowledge of and passion for the aims of Sail Training, the outdoor education sector, youthwork or the charitable/voluntary sector is essential. The role includes but is not limited to:
• promoting Sail Training and increasing awareness and impact
• raising the profile of Sail Training in the UK through talks, events and social media
• working with the Trustees to develop a strategy and budget
• liaising with charities and public sector bodies including the RYA, MCA and Trinity House
• speaking at national and international conferences and events
• advising the leadership of 30 separate Sail Training charities
• budget management, awarding and paying of grants
• event management, such as organising an annual one-day conference for 130 delegates, and organising the annual Small Ships Race
• line managing the Administrator and Social Media/Marketing co-ordinator
Whilst the ASTO office is based in Gosport it is not important to live in commuting distance. Occasional attendance at the office is expected to maintain a good working relationship with the other staff. You will be expected to visit member organisations and potentially sail with them to gain a greater understanding of their operations.
Successful applicants will be required to undergo a basic DBS check. The salary is £40,000 to £42,000 dependent on experience, more may be available for an exceptional candidate. We also offer a generous pension scheme and 25 days holiday per year. The full person specification is below, please apply using the application form and include a cover letter.
For an informal conversation about the role please contact the outgoing General Manager Lucy Grodie on [email protected] or 02392 503 222.
Deadline for applications: midnight on 10th March 2023