The Bermuda Sloop Foundation has appointed Diana L. Martin to the position of chief executive.

She replaces Denise Riviere, who has left to manage her own company.

Ms Martin, a former board member, has years of management and fundraising experience and has firsthand knowledge of sailing.

According to a statement from the Foundation, furthering the foundation’s mission to provide character and educational development for the Island’s young people is a priority for Ms Martin.

She joins the organisation at a time the Sloop Foundation is implementing a new educational programme incorporating the science, technology, engineering and math curriculum.

The programme is to be run in association with a new character development programme, and is aimed at approximately 400 children between the ages of 12 and 13, who will sail on board Spirit of Bermuda this school year.

The foundation has also formed a partnership with the Mirrors Programme.