Head of Region – South West

About the role

The RNLI is seeking an inspiring senior leader to head its South West region, covering the coastline from Portishead to Weymouth and the Channel Islands. You will be responsible for delivering lifesaving services, overseeing lifeboats, lifeguards and water‑safety programmes, and ensuring the region meets its strategic objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and operational oversight for lifeboat, lifeguard and water‑safety services across the South West.
• Lead a multi‑disciplinary senior management team and a large workforce of staff and volunteers.
• Analyse data, monitor trends and assess risks to drive performance and continuous improvement.
• Develop and manage regional budgets, resource proposals and fundraising initiatives.
• Build collaborative relationships with internal leadership, external partners and stakeholders.
• Represent the region at Board level and contribute to national Lifesaving Operations strategy.
• Travel across the region and to other RNLI departments as required.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in a complex, multi‑functional organisation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead change, transformation and strategic planning.
• Strong influencing and relationship‑building skills across organisational boundaries.
• Comfortable operating autonomously while aligning with a clear operational strategy.
• Empathy and humility to work alongside volunteers and staff at all levels.

Required skills

What we offer

• Salary £75,191 – £88,460 (dependent on experience).
• Hybrid and flexible working options.
• 26 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays (increasing with service).
• Outstanding pension scheme with employer contributions up to 10% of basic salary.
• Life assurance and health cash‑plan options.