BSAC is delighted to welcome Sophie Heptonstall as its new Head of Diving and Training.
This head of department position exists to directly support BSAC’s strategy along with its vision, to ensure that everybody can access the type of diving and training they want, in the way that best suits them, and at the same time enabling them to feel part of the BSAC community.
As the new Head of Diving and Training, Sophie, who lives in Cheshire, will now lead on the development and delivery of BSAC training and diving/snorkelling support services. Sophie will report to BSAC’s CEO and work as part of HQ’s senior leadership team.
Speaking on her appointment, Sophie said she welcomed the opportunity to join BSAC.
I'm really excited to be stepping into the role of Head of Diving and Training at such an important time for BSAC. Using my skills to help put our strategy into action is something I'm genuinely looking forward to. Being a member of BSAC for a long time, I have a real passion for the organisation and I'm confident I can make a big impact.
Sophie's experience
Sophie, who first dived at the age of 12 and is currently a member of Chester Sub Aqua Club, comes to BSAC from a senior marketing position in the automotive industry.
Sophie’s scuba diving journey encompasses a series of impactful roles and initiatives. As National Instructor Chief Examiner (since November 2023) she led efforts to modularise exams and enhance qualifications. During her tenure as First Class Chief Examiner (August 2023-January 2024), Sophie revamped communications to engage members, established a mentoring programme and streamlined event preparations. Sophie has held the positions of BSAC National Diving Officer (May 2015 to May 2018), Technical Group lead (May 2018-May 2019) and sat on BSAC’s Board from May 2009 to May 2018.
Sophie’s contributions over the years have spanned many varied projects including developing courses for children, proposing an online scuba magazine and evaluating courses. Sophie's leadership has extended across various committees, industry meetings and training roles, demonstrating her dedication to enriching the scuba diving and snorkelling community.
BSAC CEO, Mary Tetley said:
The role of Head of Diving and Training holds significant importance within BSAC, as it involves enhancing our training and diving/snorkelling support services to expand BSAC's reach. Sophie possesses the expertise, background and leadership acumen to advance this pivotal position. We are thrilled to have her join the BSAC team. Sophie will commence her new role on March 18th.
Sophie will be at the Go Diving Show on Saturday 2nd March on the BSAC stand if anyone wants to come and meet with her and have a chat.
