Announcement: Alistair Dickson to Step Down as CEO of Paddle Cymru

It is with mixed emotions that we announce Alistair Dickson, CEO of Paddle Cymru (formerly Canoe Wales), will be stepping down from his role in March 2025. After four years of dedicated service, Alistair has decided to pursue a lifelong ambition as a skipper in the 2025/26 Clipper Race.

During his time with us, Alistair has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of Paddle Cymru. He successfully guided the organisation through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, implemented improved governance structures, including the development of a sub-committee framework, and built a talented and committed staff team. Under his leadership, we launched our rebranded identity as Paddle Cymru and created the 2024–2028 strategic plan, which sets an inspiring course for the organisation’s future.

Alistair's vision, passion and leadership have left an indelible mark on Paddle Cymru. He will be greatly missed by the Board and staff alike, and we thank him for his outstanding contributions to our community.

Kerry Chown, Chair of Paddle Cymru, commented:
"Alistair has been an inspirational leader and a driving force behind the progress Paddle Cymru has made over the past four years. His unwavering commitment to the organisation and our paddling community has been truly remarkable. While we are sad to see him go, we are also incredibly proud and excited for him as he takes on this incredible challenge. On behalf of the Board, staff and wider community, we thank him for his hard work and dedication and wish him every success in the next chapter of his journey."

An interim solution is currently being arranged to ensure a smooth transition, and the process to recruit Alistair’s successor will begin shortly thereafter.

We wish Alistair all the very best as he embarks on this incredible new adventure and hope he carries Paddle Cymru’s spirit with him as he takes on this exciting challenge.

Thank you, Alistair, for everything you’ve done to make Paddle Cymru what it is today.

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