UKSA is delighted to announce the appointment of Catherine (Cat) Dixon as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 6 May 2025.
Cat brings an extensive background in leadership and management, with experience across various sectors, including charities, not-for-profit organisations, private companies, and public institutions. Cat previously led one of the UK’s largest land-based colleges and is deeply committed to education and outdoor training as essential tools for developing life skills and facilitating pathways to employment. Cat has also worked as an Outward Bound instructor, leading courses in youth leadership and for survivors of violence.
Richard Stokes, 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 the charity’s future.”
In addition to her extensive experience, Cat is a qualified lawyer and mediator who prioritises inclusion. She expressed her excitement about joining UKSA, stating,
“I am absolutely delighted to join UKSA and look forward to working with the Board, the staff team, the community, and UKSA’s students, and to lead this fantastic charity in the next chapter of its journey.”
The Trustees are also grateful to Ben Willows for the great work he has done developing the charity during his 9 years as CEO. We wish him every success for the future.
UKSA is a Maritime Youth Development charity based in Cowes on the Isle of Wight. We inspire and support young people through water-based adventures, education and training for careers at sea. We remove financial and social barriers so that young people from all backgrounds can access our programmes.
