British Rowing is launching a new Project Mentoring Network to connect rowing clubs with experienced people who can provide practical support, advice and challenge to help clubs overcome specific challenges and grow.
Become a Volunteer Mentor: Help Rowing Clubs Unlock Their Potential
Share your experience. Support the future of rowing.
We are looking for passionate, experienced mentors who want to give back to the sport by sharing their expertise and helping clubs become stronger, more sustainable and more impactful.
This is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference - not by doing the work for clubs, but by helping them unlock their own potential.
About the Project Mentoring Network
The network connects clubs with mentors who have experience in areas that can help strengthen club development, including:
- Governance and leadership
- Finance, funding and commercial development
- Participation growth
- Marketing and communications
- Facilities and asset management
- Community engagement
- Project management
- Culture and belonging
- Safeguarding and welfare
- Sustainability
- Digital and operational systems
We are looking for a mix of people with rowing experience and those bringing fresh perspectives from outside the sport.
Our ambition is simple: Connect clubs with experienced people who can help unlock progress - practical support, shared expertise, stronger clubs.
What does a mentor do?
- Sharing knowledge and experience
- Providing constructive challenge and fresh thinking
- Helping clubs explore solutions to specific challenges
- Asking the right questions to support better decision-making
- Helping clubs build confidence and capability
Mentoring support may take different forms, depending on the club’s needs:
- Advice Sessions
Short conversations providing expertise or guidance on a specific challenge. - Critical Friend Reviews
Reviewing plans, ideas or approaches and providing constructive feedback. - Project Mentoring
Supporting a defined club project over a longer period, typically 3-6 months.
Who are we looking for? We are looking for people who:
- Have relevant experience or expertise they can share
- Enjoy helping others develop and succeed
- Can coach and challenge constructively
- Understand the importance of collaboration and shared ownership
- Are willing to support clubs while allowing them to lead their own solutions
You do not need to have all the answers. The most effective mentors are curious, supportive and able to help others think differently.
What mentors won’t do - This programme is about guidance, not taking over. Mentors will not:
- Deliver projects on behalf of clubs
- Make decisions for clubs
- Act as paid consultants
- Manage safeguarding cases or operational issues
The club remains responsible for its own decisions and implementation.
Why become a mentor?
By joining the Project Mentoring Network, you can:
- Help strengthen rowing clubs across the country
- Share your expertise with passionate volunteers and club leaders
- Support the growth and sustainability of the sport
- Build connections with people across the rowing community
- Make a lasting impact beyond your own club or organisation
How it works
- Expression of Interest
Complete a short form sharing your background, expertise and interests. - Conversation
Have an informal discussion with the British Rowing team to understand your experience, mentoring style and availability. - Matching
We will match mentors with clubs based on expertise, needs, experience and fit. - Mentoring Support
Work alongside a club to help them navigate challenges and unlock opportunities.
Rowing Club Mentor: Unlock Growth & Impact employer: British Rowing
British Rowing is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the stunning Dorney Lake, where employees can engage in meaningful operations that directly contribute to the safety and enjoyment of rowing activities. With a strong emphasis on employee development through comprehensive training in health and safety practices, staff are encouraged to grow their skills while enjoying a supportive culture that values teamwork and community engagement. The role provides unique opportunities to work in a premier sporting venue, making it an attractive choice for those passionate about water safety and operations.
