RYA Announces new Training Manager
by Emma Slater, RYA 28 Jul 2010 13:57 BST
28 July 2010
Richard Falk is the new RYA Training Manger and Chief Examiner © RYA
The RYA is delighted to announce that Richard Falk who joined the RYA in February this year as RYA Cruising Manager has now been appointed the new RYA Training Manager, following the retirement of James Stevens.
After a long and illustrious career at the RYA, James Stevens will retire at the end of September, when Richard will take over the post of Training Manager and Chief Examiner.
Richard said: “I am delighted with my appointment and look forward to taking over where James leaves off. RYA Training is without question a powerful force with great recognition around the world. We have a healthy scheme delivered by committed and professional instructors.
“The strength and scale of the various schemes can be largely attributed to James Stevens through his many years of involvement and leadership. I look forward to carrying on his work whilst exploring the many opportunities for growth and development in the future.”
As Training Manager and Chief Examiner, Richard will be responsible for the maintenance and development of all RYA training schemes both in the UK and overseas. He will also replace James as the Chief Examiner for the Yachtmaster scheme and will continue to champion RYA recreational and commercial training and qualifications. One of his key responsibilities will be in liaising with national governing bodies concerning the recognition of RYA qualifications internationally.
Originally from Australia, Richard has been living in the UK for five years and is an RYA Yachtmaster Instructor and Examiner. He has been Principal of an RYA training centre, so is well versed in the challenges that instructors and Principals face.
Richard is also a very experienced cruising and racing sailor, having skippered the Singapore entry for the Clipper Ventures Round the World Race and is highly qualified in the commercial motor boating world. In addition, he has a strong business background, having worked for large retail corporations in Australia over the years.