UK Sailing Academy appoints Cat Dixon as new CEO

UK Sailing Academy (UKSA), a centre of excellence dedicated to inspiring, educating, and equipping people for a life in or around sea, has appointed Catherine Dixon (Cat) as its new Chief Executive Officer.

With an exceptional track record in leadership and management across education, social justice, legal and health sectors, Cat brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted passion for empowering young people.

Cat has over 15 years’ experience as a chief executive for a wide range of organisations including NHS Resolution, the Law Society of England and Wales, and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. Her extensive career includes leading one of the UK's largest land-based colleges, Askham Bryan College, where she supported thousands of students from diverse backgrounds to thrive in vocational education.

A qualified solicitor and mediator, Cat has championed diversity, equality, and inclusion and her work building pathways for underrepresented groups aligns with UKSA’s mission to transform young lives through sailing and maritime careers.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Cat holds the world record for the fastest circumnavigation of the globe on a tandem bicycle, a feat of endurance, teamwork and resilience that reflects her dynamic leadership style. She has also worked as an outward bound instructor in Canada, a sea kayak guide instructor, and served in the British Army.

Cat said: “I am absolutely delighted to join UKSA and lead the organisation in its vital work. I’ve seen first-hand how outdoor education and practical skills training can transform the lives of young people.

“Our goal is to continue to deliver outstanding experiences on the water and ensure those experiences lead to real and lasting life chances. By removing barriers and boundaries to thriving maritime adventures and opportunities, we’re enabling young people to develop essential life skills and fulfilling careers.”

Richard Stokes CBE FIET MIoD, UKSA Chair of Trustees, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Cat to the team. Her broad experience of developing successful organisations, passion for outdoor learning, and commitment to delivering impact for young people will be a great addition to UKSA. The Board of Trustees are very much looking forward to working with her to shape our future.”

UKSA is a centre of excellence dedicated to inspiring, educating, and equipping people for a life in or around sea, based in Cowes on the Isle of Wight. It inspires and supports thousands of young people each year through water-based adventures, education, and training for careers at sea. The organisation is dedicated to removing financial and social barriers so that young people from all backgrounds can unlock their potential through the opportunities of the seas.