The Poole Yacht Club, our greatest asset is our team of dedicated individuals who are passionate about delivering exceptional service and creating memorable experiences for our members.
Each member of our team brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and a genuine commitment to the values that make The Poole Yacht Club .
Chas Kirkby
GENERAL MANAGER
Chas.Kirkby@pooleyc.co.uk
Worked in hotel hospitality for 7 years; 18 years at commercial marinas; 1 year at PYC, which I am loving.
In my spare time I like all playing of sorts of sports, being out on the water and enjoying a true story doc/film.
If you have any questions, feel free to email me directly at chas.kirkby@pooleyc.co.uk.
Antoinette Leyland, FMAAT
OFFICE MANAGER &
FINANCE CONTROLER
Antoinette.Leyland@pooleyc.co.uk
With over 20 years of experience in banking and finance, including senior roles at Barclays, and more than a 10 years at The Poole Yacht Club. I am a Licensed AAT accountant which means I have held an AAT Full Membership for five consecutive years of experience in senior roles in Finance and Accounting and an unblemished record which enables me to reach my “FMAAT” Status which is the highest designation you can achieve.
My expertise spans financial analysis, payroll, and HR, and I feel I am very approachable and friendly and always happy to help.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my Dachshund, Oscar.
Carla Casagrande,
MBA, ITIL-F®, COBIT®
IT ADMINISTRATOR
Carla@pooleyc.co.uk
With 28 years in Brazil’s IT sector and experience at companies like DXC technologies, HP Enterprise, and Ford Motors, I moved to the UK in 2019, worked in hospitality, then joining The Poole Yacht Club in 2022. Since August 2024, I’ve led IT initiatives, working with a trusted tech partner to enhance digital operations. Outside of work, I enjoy travelling and rock music.
Anne Eaton
OFFICE – ADMINISTRATOR
Anne.Eaton@pooleyc.co.uk
With 26 years at PYC, I’ve gained extensive knowledge and witnessed the club’s growth. I manage boat berth allocations, payments, memberships, and member communications, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Outside of work, I enjoy visiting gardens and have a passion for flowers.
Michelle Hastings
OFFICE – ADMINISTRATOR
michelle.hastings@pooleyc.co.uk
With over a year of experience at Poole Yacht Club, I handle payments, membership setup, and member communications, and assisting with event manager. With 30 years of experience in the financial services, insurance and tourism industries. In my spare time, I enjoy beach walks with my dogs.
With 9 years of experience at PYC. I maintain our fleet of safety boats, hold license for 25tonne Travel hoist, slinger/banksman, VHF, PB2, and forklift operator. I help with launch services, events and overall maintenance around the club and haven. I help manage, plan, and carry out the Haulout programs. My background consist of service, music(performing, teaching, recording) and management roles within a variety of sectors.
My interests outside of work life include music, drawing, sports, movies, and military history.
Ian Simpson
HAVEN MASTER
Haven@pooleyc.co.uk
I’d describe myself as a fearless man of unwavering resolve, I thrives on the thrill of sailing the high seas, where the untamed ocean matches the intensity of my spirit. With hands hardened by years of navigating treacherous waters and mastering intricate craft, I can build, repair, and fight with equal skill. My chiseled good looks speak of a life carved by adventure, with sharp features that mirror my inner strength. As a warrior, I’m formidable, possessing both the brute force and strategic mind needed to outwit any foe, always ready to protect my crew and face the unknown with courage and grace.
Polly Bartlett
BAR MANAGER
Polly.bartlett@pooleyc.co.uk
After a long break I am back behind the bar! I grew up working in family restaurants and bars in both the UK and Spain and following a change in career more years ago than I care to admit, I joined the Yacht Club in 2023 to work in the office. Since then, I have been lucky enough to take the helm behind the bar and work towards keeping the members happy and well liquored!
I’m originally from Kent but have moved all over the place. I love living in Poole. I love exploring the area and taking photos of things which make me smile. I can probably talk the hind legs off a donkey about Terry Pratchett’s Discworld and can say most of my humour comes from there too. I love travelling so if anyone has any suggestions of must-see places, I will happily take them.
Sean McGeown – Team leader – catering@pooleyc.co.uk
Aidan Moore – Team leader – catering@pooleyc.co.uk
Elod Ambrus
HEAD CHEF
Chef@pooleyc.co.uk
A passionate culinary artist whose love for cooking is matched only by his dedication to family and sports. With a natural flair for creating delicious dishes that bring people together, he thrives in the kitchen where every meal is an opportunity to connect with loved ones. When he’s not whipping up culinary masterpieces, you’ll likely find him on the field, courtside, or enjoying an active lifestyle with his family. A firm believer in the power of good food and quality time, Chef Elod finds inspiration in both the kitchen and the great outdoors. Whether he’s experimenting with new recipes or cheering on his favourite team, his energy and enthusiasm for life are contagious.
AJ Windsor
SAILING PRO
training@pooleyc.co.uk
I’m an RYA-certified sailing professional with extensive experience and a deep passion for life on the water.
Whether it’s providing expert tips, assisting with races, or introducing newcomers to the thrill of sailing at the Poole Yacht Club, I’m always eager to share my love for this incredible sport.
Always happy to help, feel free to contact me on training@pooleyc.co.uk