Thomas Boardley to Step Down as Maritime UK Chair

Maritime UK today announces that Thomas Boardley will be stepping down as Chair, concluding a successful three-year tenure during which he has provided exceptional leadership and strategic direction to the UK's thriving maritime sector.

Having served first as Vice Chair and then as Chair, Thomas Boardley has been instrumental in uniting the diverse and complex maritime industries. Under his guidance, Maritime UK has advanced its work on key industry priorities, including decarbonisation, digital innovation, and promoting diversity and inclusion across the sector. Notable contributions included his work as Vice Chair of the Department for Transport’s Maritime Advisory Committee.His commitment to collaboration has strengthened the voice of the sector, ensuring that its vital contribution to the UK economy is recognised at all levels of government and beyond.

Maritime UK is pleased to announce that Brian Johnson, currently serving as Vice Chair, will succeed Thomas Boardley as the new Chair. Mr. Johnson brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the sector, and is well-positioned to build on the foundations laid by his predecessor. Brian retired from his previous role as the UK Business Development Director at BAE Systems Maritime in Portsmouth Naval Base in December 2024. He brings a wealth of private sector experience to his role, with over 20 years’ experience in the Marine and Maritime sector at organisations such as Thales, Marconi and the aforementioned BAE Systems. Brian is also sits as Independent Chair at Solent Freeport. 

In a statement, Brian Johnson said,

"It is a great privilege to be stepping into the role of Chair. I have had the pleasure of working closely with Tom and he has provided invaluable guidance during his tenure. Going forwards together with our members, we can continue to champion the UK's world leading maritime sector and address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Looking forwards, I’ve known Chris for a number of years and am really looking forward to working with him and the whole Maritime UK team"

Prof Chris Shirling-Rooke MBE, Chief Executive of Maritime UK said, 

"On behalf of everyone at Maritime UK and across the broader sector, I want to extend our deepest thanks to Tom for his unwavering help and support. His strategic foresight and commitment have left a lasting positive impact on our organisation and the entire sector. Tom has been a true champion for the UK maritime industries, and we are grateful for all he has done. We wish him all the very best for the future."