The Maritime Foundation has appointed Rhett Hatcher, Chief Executive of the UK Chamber of Shipping, as its new President, bringing senior maritime, defence and strategic leadership experience to the role.
A former Royal Navy Rear Admiral and UK National Hydrographer, Rhett brings extensive experience in strategy, operations and defence engagement, as well as a strong understanding of the wider maritime sector through his role at the UK Chamber. Rhett will lead the Foundation in championing the vital role maritime plays in the prosperity, security, and sustainability of our island nation.
I am delighted to welcome Rhett to the Maritime Foundation as our President when the maritime sector stands at a crossroads, and there is no better person to bring leadership and wisdom.
I look forward to working with him in this new chapter for the Foundation.
Richard Clayton
Chair of the Maritime Foundation
I am honoured to take on the role of President of the Maritime Foundation at such an important time for our community.
The maritime and shipping sector is central to the UK’s prosperity, security and sustainability and the Foundation has a vital role to play in highlighting the challenges, championing the people and opportunities and celebrating the successes that will shape the future of our maritime nation.
I look forward to supporting that mission in the years ahead.
Rhett Hatcher
President of the Maritime Foundation
Rhett Hatcher will take up the role of President of the Maritime Foundation on 01 June 2026.
Notes to Editors:
Rhett Hatcher:
Rhett joined the Chamber of Shipping as the CEO in March 2024, after leaving the Royal Navy and, most recently, the role of UK National Hydrographer, Deputy Chief Executive and Director for Defence and Data Acquisition at the UK Hydrographic Office. During his time in the Navy, Rhett served as a surface warfare officer, attack helicopter pilot and Joint staff officer on operations all over the world. He held sea and air command appointments in HM Ships Penzance, Bulwark and Protector and 815 Naval Air Squadron, respectively. Rhett has worked extensively across government departments in Whitehall, developing policy options for political choice on issues regarding futures and strategic analysis, military capability, counter-terrorism, Joint operations and international security. Rhett holds a Masters from Kings College London and is a graduate of the Higher Command and Staff course and US Capstone Course. He is a Younger Brother of Trinity House, a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights and an Honorary Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Wax Chandlers.
The Maritime Foundation:
The Maritime Foundation champions the vital role maritime plays in the prosperity, security, and sustainability of our island nation. The UK’s population relies on maritime, with around 95% of all imported and exported goods transported by sea and the Foundation works to sustain the UK as a global leader in commercial shipping, the maritime leisure industry, nautical education, defence and environmental consciousness.