Issue date
Yachting New Zealand is hosting an online information session at 7pm on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, to discuss the new RDM structure and answer any questions. To register for the session, click here.
Yachting New Zealand is set to overhaul its regional development manager (RDM) programme in response to feedback from yacht clubs requesting more enhanced specialist support across the country.
The decision follows a comprehensive review of the existing structure and is based on data collected during the annual club survey conducted last year.
"Our most recent survey results, as well as feedback received directly from clubs and class associations, identifies a clear need for more targeted support," said Yachting New Zealand chief executive David Abercrombie. "This includes strategic planning, governance, environmental and facility infrastructure development, coaching and effective club programmes, risk management, fundraising, and compliance."
The RDM programme, previously the regional support officer (RSO) programme and in place for around 16 years, currently consists of four positions - three in the North Island and one in the South Island - acting as conduits between the national body and its 106 member clubs. While these roles are highly valued by the members, Abercrombie noted that the support provided has been broad and generalised by design.
"Clubs have made it clear that they require more specialised assistance. We believe the current structure is no longer fit for purpose or sufficient to meet these needs. We have listened, and as a result, we are introducing four revised roles, each focusing on key areas identified in the feedback - coaching, sustainability and inclusion, governance and advocacy, and safety and compliance."
These specialist positions will replace the four existing RDM roles while maintaining existing regional connections and on-the-ground support, Abercrombie said.
The new roles are:
* Regional development and coaching manager: Upskilling and supporting clubs in running programmes for beginners, junior and youth sailors, developing a club racing template, and consulting with national class associations.
* Regional development, sustainability and inclusion manager: Coordinating Yachting New Zealand's environmental objectives, promoting inclusive sailing programmes, engaging with underserved communities and promoting cultural competency.
* Regional development, governance and advocacy manager: Advocating for clubs' and Yachting New Zealand interests, assisting with facility management alongside councils and organisations, and providing governance and leadership guidance.
* Regional development, safety and compliance manager: Providing safety and technical guidance to clubs and yacht and boat owners, supporting yacht inspectors, developing and administering safety boat training systems, and creating community safety development tools and advice.
Click here for detailed position descriptions for each role.
In addition to these specific responsibilities, each role will continue to focus on maintaining strong relationships with members in their respective regions, promoting Yachting New Zealand programmes, and helping clubs engage with their local communities.
According to Abercrombie, there is no intention to centralise all of the regional development team in any single location.
"Our commitment to regional representation remains steadfast, and the regional distribution of roles will continue as is, with a focus on maintaining strong relationships, promoting Yachting New Zealand programmes, and helping clubs engage with their local communities," he said.
"Importantly, these new roles will be implemented within the current budget, so there will be no extra cost to clubs."
Yachting New Zealand's current regional development managers, whose roles will be disestablished, will be considered for the new positions alongside external candidates, Abercrombie said.
"We recognise that this transition may be challenging, and we are offering support to affected staff," he said.
Yachting New Zealand's national sport development director Raynor Haagh has assured clubs that existing access to services and advice would remain unchanged.
"Nothing changes in terms of maintaining a connection with clubs across the length and breadth of New Zealand and these four new roles will complement the existing services available to clubs, such as club coach development and education," Haagh said.
"Clubs will continue to have a point of contact with a regional understanding, and support will always be just a phone call or email away."
The recruitment process for the new roles will start next week.
A webinar will be scheduled soon to answer any questions from club members.
