Certifying Authority Manager

Organisation: Royal Yachting Association
Salary: £37,000 - £44,000 per annum
Location: Hamble, Southampton (hybrid working, with some UK travel required)
Contract type: Permanent (Full time)
Closing date: 6 July 2026
Job Description: We are looking for an experienced and commercially minded professional to lead our Certifying Authority function. This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in ensuring safety, compliance and quality across the UK’s small commercial vessel sector, while shaping the future of the RYA’s technical commercial services.

This role sits within the Competition & Technical Services Team, part of the wider Sport Department. Reporting to the Head of Competition & Technical Services, you will:

- Lead and develop a small specialist team (2 administrators)
- Oversee and develop the ongoing authorisation of the RYA’s network of coding surveyors, inspectors and tonnage measurers
- Manage a commercial service area with an annual turnover of approximately £150k
- Oversee certification and tonnage measurement services for small commercial vessels
- Ensure compliance with Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) and other flag state administration agreements

Key Responsibilities:

- Lead, manage and support the Technical Commercial team, ensuring high performance and alignment with departmental objectives
- Oversee the delivery of certification and tonnage services, ensuring compliance with regulatory agreements and standards
- Maintain and develop the Certifying Authority Quality Management System
- Build and manage relationships with surveyors, regulators, government bodies and industry stakeholders
- Manage and grow the commercial performance of the function, identifying business development opportunities
- Support technical advice and interpretation of regulations for internal teams, members and customers
- Contribute to national and international discussions on maritime standards and regulation where required

What We’re Looking For:

We are seeking someone who can combine leadership, technical understanding and commercial awareness.

Essential:

- Experience leading and managing a team
- Strong ability to interpret and apply technical regulations and complex information
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Proven ability to build effective working relationships internally and externally
- Commercial awareness and the ability to support business growth

Desirable:

- Knowledge of marine regulations or the small commercial vessel sector
- Experience working with regulatory bodies
- Familiarity with Quality Management Systems (e.g. ISO 9001)
- Background in surveying, naval architecture or a related field

Why Join Us?

This is a rare opportunity to influence safety and standards across the UK boating sector, working with key regulators and industry professionals. You’ll play an important role in maintaining and developing services that have national impact while contributing to the continued success of the RYA.

Benefits

The RYA offers a range of benefits which include:

- 36 days holiday including public holidays
- Birthday day off
- 10% RYA contribution to a personal pension scheme,
- Free life insurance
- Discounts platform for retail, entertainment, holidays & gym membership
- 2 volunteering days (paid)
- Free charging point for electric vehicles whilst on your working days at the office
- Social Events
- RYA Membership
- Optional Team Sailing Days
How to apply: Please visit our careers page on our website: https://www.rya.org.uk/about-us/careers/job-vacancies/certifying-authority-manager/ Here you can view the full job description and apply for the role.