Non-Executive Commissioner; Stakeholder Engagement

Overview

Location: Cowes, Isle of Wight

Time Commitment: Approximately eight Board meetings and three Advisory Committee meetings per year.

Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Cowes Harbour Commission is seeking a committed, strategically minded individual to join our Board as a Non-Executive Commissioner, with a primary focus on stakeholder engagement
. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of one of the UK’s most historic and vibrant harbours, supporting its growth, governance, and strong community relationships.

As a Non-Executive Commissioner, you will:

• Lead on strengthening engagement with a wide range of harbour stakeholders, including commercial operators, leisure users, and community groups.
• Provide constructive challenge and independent oversight during Board discussions and decision-making.
• Support the development of CHC’s long-term strategy by ensuring stakeholder perspectives are understood and reflected.
• Promote open communication, transparency, and collaboration across the harbour community.
• Participate actively in approximately eight Board meetings per year.

We welcome applications from individuals who can demonstrate:

• Strong experience or interest in stakeholder engagement, partnership development, or community liaison.
• Knowledge or experience of the commercial and/or leisure industries operating within the harbour would be advantageous but not essential.
• Excellent communication, diplomacy, and relationship-building skills.
• The ability to think strategically, provide independent judgment, and contribute positively to Board governance.
• A commitment to the values of public service, sustainability, and the long-term interests of Cowes Harbour.

• An influential and rewarding voluntary role contributing to the stewardship of a key local asset.
• The chance to collaborate with a motivated and diverse Board of Commissioners.
• Opportunities to shape policy, drive positive change, and strengthen the harbour’s dialogue with its users and community.

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and what you would bring to the role to .

For further information about the Cowes Harbour Commission, please visit:

Final date to receive applications: 06 February 2026

Join us in supporting Cowes Harbour’s future and ensuring its users and community remain at the heart of its development.