Sydney's CYCA CEO off to Dubai

by CYCA on 10 May 2004 CEO Joe Goddard writes today 'As you have probably heard by now, I have resigned from the position of CYCA to take up a position as marina manager for a new waterfront development to be built in Dubai in the Middle East.

After three years as CEO I have decided to accept the exciting challenge of overseeing the construction of a huge hardstand area and four large marinas that will berth up to 800 boats.

My decision to head overseas was also influenced by the fact that my father has been unwell for sometime and I will now be on hand to assist my brother, who also lives in Dubai, with my father’s care.

My new employer is Emaar Properties, UAE's largest developer, which is currently building the world’s tallest building in Dubai and also pioneered the freehold purchasing of land by expatriates.

Dubai Marina is a huge residential project ultimately housing over 100,000 people within 4kms of man-made waterfront canals and bays. There are four large marinas being built that will berth 700 to 800 boats plus a huge hardstand area with travel lifts to accommodate 40 boats.

I will be in charge of the marinas, the yacht club and the repair facility (which are yet to be built) so there will be an amount of design and construction assistance as well as sales, daily management and training of new staff.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those members who have contacted me to wish me luck in my new position, and to thank me for my contribution to the Club.

Over the past three years I have served under two popular Commodores - Hans Sommer and John Messenger - and their hard working Board members. I wish them and all the Committee members and volunteers of the Club the best for the future, in particular for the exciting 60th anniversary Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, Rolex Trophy and Rolex Farr 40 World Championships.

I recently oversaw a telemarketing survey of current members that revealed CYCA members gave Club staff had an overwhelming approval rating.

Customer service was one of my biggest priorities during my time as CEO and if I have made a significant change to customer service standards, then I can depart satisfied this priority has been achieved.

My CYCA management team are professional, friendly and diligent and I personally will miss their camaraderie.

I look forward to reaching the 30-Year Member milestone in a couple of years and hope I will be on hand to assist the Club as a volunteer in the future.'