RYA announces career move for Chief Executive

Sarah Treseder © RYA

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The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) has today confirmed that Sarah Treseder will be moving on from the organisation to become the next Chief Executive at the UK Chamber of Shipping, replacing Bob Sanguinetti.

Sarah is a member of the British Olympic Association Board and a Younger Brother of Trinity House and has successfully led the RYA for more than 10 years. She will bring a wealth of experience to her new role and is due to take up the position in October 2021.

Commenting on her appointment, Sarah said: "I have treasured my time at the RYA and am proud of what the Association has achieved whilst I have been at its helm. The team support I have received over the past decade has been outstanding, which has made the decision to leave incredibly tough, but I know I leave the RYA in a very strong position and that it will go from strength to strength in the years ahead.

"Covid has focused attention on the vital role shipping and seafarers play in transporting the goods we all need and take for granted. The shipping sector faces a number of safety, security and environmental challenges and it is at a crucial stage in its decarbonisation journey; I know that will be one of the top priorities for me and the team at the Chamber. I look forward to working with the UK Government and world leading organisations as we look to reduce emissions whilst continuing to promote global trade."

RYA Chair Chris Preston remarked: "On behalf of the RYA Board and our staff and volunteers, I would like to thank Sarah for her exceptional contribution to the Association. Sarah has transformed the RYA in terms of strategic thinking, partnership networking and ambition during her 11-year tenure. There is not an aspect of the Association's business both internally and externally that she has not influenced or changed for the better; consequently, she leaves a strong and lasting legacy.

"The Board would particularly like to thank Sarah for her commitment and contribution during the Covid crisis and the challenges posed by Brexit - the Association's response to both has been exemplary. We are very grateful for Sarah's commitment, energy and great passion for recreational and competitive boating, and we wish her all the very best for the future."

UK Chamber of Shipping President John Denholm added: "I am absolutely thrilled we have secured someone of Sarah's calibre to lead the UK Chamber of Shipping. Sarah has had a stellar career spanning roles in sporting and other sectors and I know she will provide strong leadership for the Chamber. I look forward to working closely with her in the months and years ahead."

Sarah graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics in 1991. She held a range of positions at Diageo before becoming Chief Executive of the RYA in 2010.

Sarah will continue in her role as RYA CEO until the end of August, whilst the recruitment process takes place, allowing her successor to participate in the formulation of the next four-year RYA strategy which will be launched in 2021/22.

Everyone at the RYA wishes Sarah the very best for her future.

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