As the 56th edition of Southampton International Boat Show approaches, we are excited to be back, showcasing our dynamic range of boats and reconnecting with both familiar faces and new members of our amazing RS community.
This year, a mix of seasoned team members and fresh faces will be on the stand alongside Managing Director Jon Partridge and Commercial Director Michiel Geerling. So, we thought we’d give you a quick introduction to the crew ahead of time. After all, RS Sailing is a brand built by sailors, for sailors – and that extends into the great people in our sales team.
Lily Fox – Direct Sales Executive
Lily joined RS Sailing in August 2024 – but it already feels like she’s been part of the team for years! With a strong sailing background, she’s worked as a Senior Instructor at Sea View Yacht Club and brings hands-on experience that spans from one-on-one customer support to fleet and training program sales.
When she’s not at RS HQ, you’ll find Lily crewing on a variety of yachts out of Hamble – or racing her own RS200.
What’s Lily most excited about this year?
“Meeting customers face-to-face, hearing their stories about the RS boats they’ve owned, and chatting about their plans for next season.”
Andy Kilburn – Parts Sales Manager
Andy has been part of the RS Sailing family since May 2018 – but his RS journey began long before that. An avid racer, Andy has sailed RS200s, RS400s, RS800s, and RS21s, and now competes regularly in the RS Aero class at both national and international events.
As head of RS Sailing Store’s Parts & Dispatch team, Andy is your go-to for all things technical.
What does Andy enjoy most about the show?
“Sharing knowledge and boat tweaks – whether it’s top tips, tuning advice or the latest bimble to give your RS the edge.”
Adam Catlow – Part Sales Co-Ordinator
Adam first joined RS through our student summer work experience program in 2024 – and never left! He came onboard full-time in November 2024 and has quickly become a key part of the team.
A dedicated RS200 sailor, Adam competes at open meetings and national events across the UK. He also serves on the RS200 committee and holds RYA instructor and race coach qualifications.
His top pick for the show?
“The RS Quest. It’s such a versatile and welcoming platform – perfect for learning and teaching. I’m especially excited to highlight it as we celebrate its 10-year anniversary this year!”
Ben Wallis – Dealer Sales Manager
An RS Sailing veteran, Ben has been part of the family since 2014, starting on the shop floor and rising through the ranks to become an expert in Parts & Spares. Today, he works closely with our global network of distributors as Dealer Sales Manager, helping bring the RS experience to sailors all over the world.
You may also recognise Ben as a friendly face in the support team at RS Feva World Championships and other RS class events – always ready to lend a hand and keep things running smoothly.
What’s Ben’s favourite thing about working at RS?
“The people. Whether it’s the team in the office or the RS sailors around the world, there’s a shared energy that makes every day exciting. Seeing that come to life at events like Southampton is what it’s all about.”
Zoë Beckly – Direct Sales Executive
Zoë is our newest member of the sales team, and what better way to dive straight in than at the Southampton International Boat Show! Her sailing journey includes instructing in Cornwall, three seasons in Greece with Beyond Beach (formerly Trek Adventures), and even an Atlantic crossing aboard an Alden 54.
She’s no stranger to the RS range. From club racing RS200s in Southwest Tours, to teaching in the RS Feva, RS Quest, RS Zest and RS CAT14, Zoë brings a wealth of hands-on experience with RS boats.
What’s Zoë most excited about?
“Meeting RS sailors from all over and getting stuck into the show buzz!”
Come Say Hi
Southampton International Boat Show is taking place from 19th – 28th September at Mayflower Park and RS Sailing will be on stand W060 on the waterfront. Whether you’re looking to chat about your next boat, find out some top tips, or just say hello – the team are looking forward to seeing you.
For tickets, head to Southampton International Boat Show’s official website. Remember, you can get discounted tickets using our EXCLUSIVE access code: RSSAILING. Want to find out more about what’s on the stand? Head to our show preview here.
