Three New Non-Executive Directors Appointed to Maritime and Coastguard Agency Board
The Rt Hon Heidi Alexander MP, Secretary of State for Transport, has announced the appointment of three new Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) to the Board of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), effective from 1 January 2026. The new appointees bring a wealth of experience from various sectors, enhancing the agency’s leadership as it modernises operations and supports innovation across the maritime industry.
Profiles of the New Appointees
- Vice Admiral Sir Martin Connell: The former Second Sea Lord of the Royal Navy will utilise his extensive naval experience to guide the MCA.
- Britt Pickering: With professional ties to the Shipowners Protection and Indemnity Club and the International Group, Pickering will contribute insights from the shipownership sector.
- Kevin Daffey: Representing Rolls Royce and serving as chairman of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology, Daffey brings a strong engineering and technological perspective.
Chairman’s Remarks
Lord Simon Stevens, Chairman of the MCA, expressed enthusiasm about the calibre of the new directors. He stated, “Our new directors bring deep expertise and extensive leadership experience covering many of the MCA’s wide-ranging responsibilities, both in the UK and internationally.” Stevens emphasized the importance of these appointments during a time when the MCA is both enhancing its operational delivery and fostering innovation within the maritime sector.
Recent Additions to the MCA Board
These new directors will join Andre Katz, who was appointed as a Non-Executive Director and chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee in September 2025. Katz is a Chartered Accountant with over 25 years of experience in risk management and audit, further strengthening the governance of the MCA.
Role of the MCA Board
The MCA Board and its Non-Executive Directors play a crucial role in providing oversight and support for the agency’s diverse responsibilities. This includes management of HM Coastguard, shipping regulation, seafarer training, and maritime environmental protection. The appointments were made after a public advertisement and a competitive selection process, reinforcing transparency in the recruitment of board members.
Looking Ahead
The MCA is set to focus on its priorities for 2025/26 as outlined in its Business Plan, which aims to enhance maritime safety and promote environmental sustainability within the UK’s waters.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-maritime-and-coastguard-agency-non-executive-directors-appointed
