DOSC’s new naval touch

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The Dubai Offshore Sailing Club has a fantastic barasti atmosphere that Keith wants to build on.

DOSC's new Club Manager explains his vision for a more dynamic environment.

You look tired...

I don't know what time I left here last night. I was just off when I got involved in setting the world to rights with a group of local members. Great stuff occasionally, but it seems to be every night! And then I'm back again for 8am.

What brought you here?

The sea and marine life has always been important to me. I spent 23 years in the South African Navy, which took me to many different corners of the world. Then I consulted in security and logistics for humanitarian and corporate organisations operating in post conflict environments, which took me to Afghanistan, Africa and Iraq. It was after spending a couple of years in Baghdad that I decided I was too far from the sea and needed to get involved again.

It was advertised in Iraq?

No, I was told about it at Barasti bar. I wanted to be closer to the sea and I enjoy working with teams, building new systems and bringing people together, which are crucial to ensuring the club runs smoothly. And I am used to socialising with patrons and ensuring teams are running, a skill I picked up as a Naval Captain.

So. Thoughts so far?

This is a fantastic club; a great mix of characters, ages and backgrounds. To find so many different nationalities socialising together in the same place is great: be it shorts, suit or national dress, everyone seems to leave their differences at the door.

What's your first challenge?

Everything is here - the environment, the team, the enthusiasm; it just needed a little direction. Arriving with fresh eyes meant I saw the facilities for what they are and could be, with no familiarity. The first thing I did was get the whole club clean, up the standards so the clubhouse becomes more comfortable and is somewhere people are proud to call theirs and bring family, friends and business colleagues.

A big challenge for you?

I'm a hands-on guy. If there is something to do, I'll be the first there. But the important thing is to make sure the whole team want to do it, and know how to do it. That is what will be carried through in every area of the club - from food service to events and housekeeping. Its often just a case of leading from the front, but you have to work together.

Is the staff pulling together?

Its not just about staff. This is a members non-profit club; its up to everyone to pitch in and that is what I am going to start asking people - how their skills could be used to help improve the club. If you can build a wall, then come and show me. If you can plant a tree, come and help me. Its the start of the season, the best time to begin refreshed. But I don't just want guys coming to me giving ideas and opinions, actions always speak louder.

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