A Family, a Community, a Career: Pip Woods and 22 Years at Rockley

When you talk to Pip Woods, it’s instantly clear that Rockley isn’t just her workplace, it’s part of who she is. For over two decades, Pip has been at the helm of one of the UK’s leading watersports and outdoor education providers, steering the business through change, challenge and growth. But as she explains, her connection to Rockley began long before her first day on the job.

“My Rockley story actually started back in the early 1980s,” she laughs. “I was about ten, and my dad worked here. I spent my summers sailing every day, looked after by Straw and the other instructors. From that point on, I was hooked.”

Sailing became part of Pip’s DNA, and Rockley, a second home. Over the years, it even became something of a family affair. “Seven of us have worked at Rockley in one way or another,” she says proudly.

Pip officially joined Rockley 22 years ago, starting out as the RYA Onboard Development Officer, when Rockley was the RYA’s pilot centre for a brand-new participation programme.

“The role was part-funded by the RYA and part by Rockley, and it was a bit of everything, teaching, working with schools, helping with sales, whatever needed doing. It gave me the perfect grounding in what makes Rockley special: the purpose, the people and the passion.”

Since then, Pip has worn a lot of hats, including Sales Manager, Sales & Marketing Manager, Sales & Marketing Director, and, since 2014, Managing Director. But no matter how much time she spends in the office, she’s never far from the water.

“I’ve always kept my connection to teaching. I’m still an RYA Dinghy Scheme Trainer, and I love running instructor courses. It’s such a rewarding part of what we do, sharing knowledge, building confidence and inspiring the next generation.”

When Peter and Lis Gordon handed Pip the reins in 2014, it was a defining moment for both her and the company.

“I’ll always be grateful for their trust and belief in me. It’s been such a privilege to lead Rockley alongside an incredible, passionate team.”

That team, Pip says, is what makes everything possible. “I’ve always believed that if you look after your people, they’ll do their best work. Our culture is built around teamwork and positivity, nothing is ever too much trouble for anyone here.”

Of course, it hasn’t always been plain sailing. The combined pressures of Covid and Brexit tested the business like never before.

“Those were tough times. We had to make some really difficult decisions, but we did it with our values at heart, looking after our people, keeping our customers happy and making sure Rockley came through stronger. And we did.”

Over the years, Rockley has evolved significantly, shifting from five centres across France and the UK to focusing on three strong UK sites. “It took courage, but it’s made us more adaptable. One of the great things about being privately owned is that we can make decisions quickly and pivot when we need to.”

Over two decades, there have been plenty of milestones. Pip recalls several highlights that have helped shape Rockley’s identity.

“Opening Poole Park in 2007 was huge, it gave us a real local presence and allowed us to work closely with schools and the community. Launching our education programme around 2010 was another turning point; it’s changed lives. And then in 2021, opening Buddens Activity Centre felt like a symbol of resilience and renewal after such challenging years.”

But perhaps what Pip is most proud of is her Senior Leadership Team.

“Every one of them has been with Rockley for more than 15 years. Most started as seasonal staff or straight out of uni. Watching them grow into the leaders they are today is incredible. They’re the heart of the business. We do it together.”

Next year marks a major milestone, Rockley’s 50th anniversary, and Pip’s excitement is unmistakable.

“It’s a huge achievement and something we’re incredibly proud of. Not many companies in our sector have stood the test of time like Rockley, and that says everything about our people and our purpose.”

Rockley’s vision; to change people’s lives by sharing our passion for the water and outdoors, remains as strong as ever.

“The way we deliver it might have evolved, with more emphasis on outdoor education as well as watersports, but the purpose has never wavered. And yes, we’ll definitely be celebrating in style! There might even be a new logo or fresh look, watch this space...”

Talk to Pip for even a few minutes, and it’s clear that community sits at the heart of everything Rockley does.

“We’ve always believed in helping people grow, giving them opportunities, building confidence and making them feel part of something bigger. Seeing a shy 16-year-old become a confident instructor never gets old.”

She smiles as she remembers one story in particular.

“One young person I introduced to sailing through Onboard went on to study with us, became an instructor, and is now a superyacht captain travelling the world. That’s what Rockley’s all about, changing lives through opportunity.”

As Rockley looks towards its next chapter, Pip’s focus is firmly on the future.

“The next few years will be about thoughtful growth, exploring new products, reaching new audiences and keeping that sense of adventure alive. The world of watersports education is changing fast. Young people want experiences that build life skills, confidence, teamwork, leadership, alongside technical ability. That’s exactly where Rockley thrives.”

After 22 years, what keeps her motivated?

“For me, it’s simple, the people, the purpose and the variety. Every single day is different. I still love teaching, seeing our students develop, and knowing that what we do genuinely makes a difference.”

And her advice to anyone just starting out in the industry?

“Say yes, and work out how to do it afterwards. Opportunities in watersports can take you anywhere. The more you say yes, the more doors open. And if you love what you do, you’ll never look back.”