Nick Harkness

Nick has been involved in Paddlesport for over 40 years with specific interests in Whitewater and Surf. He has had a lifelong passion for outdoor and adventure sports, which inspired him to earn a degree in Outdoor Education. His career includes many years of educating future paddlesport and mountain sports coaches and managing Tollymore National Outdoor Centre. He served as Director of Participation & Facilities with Sport NI for 18 years, overseeing programs and investments to encourage sport participation, including the £5 million redevelopment of Tollymore. Nick has significant experience managing capital and revenue funding programs in line with public sector requirements and led the team that developed Sports Matters: NI Strategy for Sport & Physical Recreation 2009-19. He is currently with the Strategic Investment Board (SIB) involved in providing strategic and project management support to Causeway Coast and Glens BC leading the Council’s Growth Deal & Levelling Up Programme.

Nick brings a wealth of Board experience from a variety of public sector roles over the past 20 years, coupled with a strong sense of community from his involvement in several third sector organisations. His passion for the sport drives his desire to give back. Nick's primary focus will be on ensuring the ongoing sustainability of the governing body for future generations of paddlers. He aims to keep the organisation relevant to emerging new disciplines and ensure a strong financial and strategic future to support current and future participation in paddlesport.