Watersports Supervisor - Chief Instructor

About the role

At the University of Southampton we have an exciting opportunity for a Watersports Supervisor / Chief Instructor overseeing activities across various locations. This includes instructing on and oversight of the University yacht, managing activity at the Watersports Centre on the Itchen, maximising on‑water participation of students and driving RYA course income. The University’s proud maritime heritage and its RYA‑accredited training centre play an important role in developing students and serving the local community. Success depends on clear communication with student users, encouraging participation while maintaining a strong focus on Health and Safety. A significant part of the role involves teaching on the 38ft Sigma yacht and/or coded RIBS, and leading the Watersports team (2 full‑time staff and a number of casual instructors). Joining now offers a chance to contribute to a globally recognised institution that delivers world‑class education, research and enterprise, in a unique environment where your skills make a real difference.

Responsibilities

• Instruct on and oversee the University yacht (38ft Sigma)
• Manage activity at the Watersports Centre on the Itchen
• Maximise on‑water student participation
• Drive RYA course income
• Communicate with student users and encourage participation
• Maintain Health and Safety standards, including risk assessments and method statements
• Teach on the yacht and/or coded RIBS
• Lead the Watersports team (2 full‑time staff and casual instructors)

Requirements

Excellent technical and communication skills, with the ability to plan and manage your own workload. You must be a positive, proactive problem solver capable of handling both planned and reactive activities to deliver work on time and to a high standard.

Qualifications

• Hold a variety of Watersports qualifications
• Experience working in a similar Watersports Centre
• Familiarity with H&S legislation, risk assessments, method statements and their application in a sporting context
• Full driving licence essential for travel to other local sites
• Enhanced DBS check may be required

Skills

• Strong team player while being self‑sufficient and able to work independently
• Ability to plan and manage workload
• Proactive problem solving
• Effective communication with students and staff

Benefits

• Generous annual leave (plus 6 additional University closure days and bank holidays)
• Company pension scheme
• Discounted private healthcare and dental
• Company sick pay
• Options for flexible working
• Excellent family leave arrangements
• Wide variety of on‑ and off‑campus arts and culture facilities
• Access to staff discounts and offers at local shops, restaurants and service providers
• Access to the University’s Pension Scheme
• Subsidised health and fitness facilities