Sail Training International, the youth focused charity and organiser of The Tall Ships Races, has appointed Vanessa Mori as chief executive officer, effective immediately.
Alan James, who took on the role of CEO in 2020 and navigated the organisation through the challenging pandemic years, remains with the organisation in the position of chief financial officer and will work closely with Vanessa.
Vanessa has been part of the charity’s senior leadership team since joining Sail Training International in 2018 as commercial director.
“The board was unanimous. Vanessa has demonstrated exactly the kind of clear thinking, leadership, and commitment to our mission that this role demands,” said James George, chair of trustees.
Our work is as important now as it has ever been.
Vanessa Mori
“She knows this organisation inside out, she understands the challenges ahead, and crucially, she shares our absolute belief in the power of sail training to change young lives.
“The charity sector faces real headwinds right now, and we need a CEO who is ready to meet them, and to seize the opportunities that come with them.
“I have every confidence that Vanessa is that person and I look forward to working closely with her as she leads STI into its next chapter.”
And he thanked Alan for his ‘outstanding leadership as CEO’.
Vanessa added: “I am excited to be taking on this new role and remain wholly committed to the charity’s mission of youth development and international friendship and understanding.
“Our work is as important now as it has ever been and we clearly have an important job to do for our future generations.
“As we celebrate the 70th anniversary this year, I look forward to working with all our stakeholders to ensure that our work continues to remain relevant for many years to come.”
