Chief Operating Officer & Director of Regions

About the role

The RNLI is seeking a visionary Chief Operating Officer & Director of Regions to lead its Lifesaving Operations Directorate and oversee the delivery of frontline services across the UK, Ireland and internationally. This senior executive will shape strategy, drive operational efficiency and champion the organisation’s mission of saving lives at sea.

Key responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership for UK and Irish frontline services through a regional operational model.
• Oversee the RNLI’s international water‑safety training, education and advocacy programmes.
• Develop and execute a long‑term vision for operational excellence, cost‑effectiveness and innovation.
• Manage large budgets, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability.
• Lead multi‑disciplinary teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and resilience.
• Drive change initiatives and deliver complex programmes across the organisation.
• Represent the RNLI with stakeholders, donors, volunteers and partners, building strong relationships and advocacy.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in a dynamic commercial or operational environment.
• Deep understanding of maritime operations and experience at director level.
• Track record of leading large, multi‑disciplinary teams and managing significant budgets.
• Demonstrated ability to drive organisational effectiveness through innovation and continuous improvement.
• Strong change‑leadership capabilities and experience delivering complex projects.
• Resilience, decisive decision‑making and the ability to inspire a broad range of volunteers, staff and supporters.

Required skills