Job role: Independent Ombudsman
Reporting to: General Assembly and the Board with support and guidance from the Legal & Governance team
Posted: May 2025
Closing date: 6 June 2025
Location: Remote
Term: 4 years
Compensation: Whilst voluntary, all reasonable travelling and similar expenses incurred in the course of World Sailing duties will be reimbursed in accordance with the Expenses Policy.
How to apply: Applications should be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Applicants should provide a current CV and covering letter.

World Sailing is the world governing body for the sport of sailing, officially recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and International Paralympic Committee (IPC).

World Sailing is responsible for:

– the promotion of the sport internationally;
– managing sailing at the Olympic and Paralympic Games;
– developing the Racing Rules of Sailing and regulations for all sailing competitions;
– the training of judges, umpires and other administrators;
– the development of the sport around the world; and
– representing sailors in all matters concerning the sport.

The principal members of World Sailing are the 145 ‘Member National Authorities’ (MNAs) and the 100+ ‘Class Associations’. Under our “Ready for the Future” strategy we have a clear and ambitious purpose: Inspire, empower and grow vibrant sailing communities around the world.

Our mission:
Develop sailing as a sport with integrity, sustainability and credibility at its heart, enabling global growth through innovation, backed by robust financial decisions to create lasting legacies for generations to come.

World Sailing has completed a complete governance re-structure and we are now recruiting for an independent person who will act as our inaugural Ombudsman.

This is a unique opportunity to play a crucial role in the resolution of complaints and disputes falling within World Sailing’s jurisdiction.

In accordance with the Terms of Reference the Ombudsman is responsible for investigating and mediating complaints and disputes received by World Sailing which are not under active consideration by another Independent Body.

• Liaison with World Sailing other Independent Bodies, the Board, Committees, Sub-committees or Commissions as appropriate.
• Reviewing and commenting on the processes and procedures followed by any part of World Sailing in reaching a decision (but may not change the decision).
• Investigate any complaints and/or concerns in an independent and non-adversarial manner.
• Facilitate resolution of complaints by agreement (if appropriate.
• Follow a fair and independent process but shall allow all affected parties the right to make representations.
• Review and agree Procedures at least once every four years.
• Review and recommend any amendments to the Terms of Reference at least once every four years.
• Exercise any other functions conferred on the Ombudsman by the Regulations.

Strategic reporting to:

• General Assembly and the Board

Support & Guidance to:

• Legal & Governance Team

Essential:

• The Ombudsman who must have at least 6 years senior experience in the administration and governance of international sports federations.
• Must be independent -not be an employee, board member, president, or other officer of either World Sailing or a Member of World Sailing and does not have any close connection
  or relationship with a director or employee of the Federation.
• A commitment to the very highest standards of corporate governance and probity.
• Demonstrable personal integrity to act fairly and impartially in the interests of World Sailing as a whole, using independent judgement and maintaining confidentiality as appropriate.
• An aptitude for dispute resolution with accomplishment and interpersonal skills appropriate for a global organisation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English with a pragmatic and solutionsfocused approach.

Desirable:

• Legally qualified, with an additional Arbitration/Mediation qualification.
• Knowledge of the Racing Rules of Sailing.
• Fluency in another language.
• Access to secretariat support (which will be funded on as required basis)

How to apply

Applications should be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Applicants should provide a current CV and covering letter.