RYA Cymru Wales Chief Executive set to help recruit successor

RYA Cymru Wales today announces that our Chief Executive Officer, Gerwyn Owen, will be stepping down from the role in May 2022.

After steering our sport through, what we hope, is the worst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Gerwyn will be remaining within the boating environment taking up a new role for Gwynedd Council as the Commercial Manager for the Hafan Marina and Harbour in Pwllheli, North Wales.

Gerwyn has accrued over 30 years’ experience in the sports sector, initially in Facility Management before a 16-year career with Disability Sport Wales as part of their Senior Management Team.

He joined RYA Cymru Wales as Chief Executive in August 2019 and during his tenure at the National Governing Body for boating in Wales he has demonstrated a true passion for Welsh Sport.

Gerwyn’s drive to get the best out of those engaging with boating, including the many coaches, volunteers and staff involved in the boating environment, has made an incredibly valuable contribution to our sport.

The RYA Cymru Wales Board will now be working together with Gerwyn to recruit a new Chief Executive Officer, with the intention to begin the recruitment process with immediate effect and to interview by mid-March.

Mike Butterfield, Chair of RYA Cymru Wales, said: “The Board is immensely grateful for all the contributions Gerwyn has made during his time here. He has skilfully guided us through some challenging times and we are very sorry to see him go.

“We will miss his positive approach, professionalism, passion and empathy, but we are excited for his next steps, which will still see him continuing to support our boating community.”