New man at the helm
09/06/2009
Paul Boissier will be the RNLI’s new Chief Executive, when Andrew Freemantle retires in September after 10 years’ service.
Paul, who recently retired from the Royal Navy, says: ‘I have been absolutely bowled over by the sense of commitment, service, courage and energy that drives the RNLI and its people. It is one of our most valued and respected charities, doing a uniquely challenging job – and consistently performing to the highest standards.
‘For me, it is a huge privilege to be asked to be the Chief Executive and I greatly look forward to taking up the appointment.’
Andrew says: ‘My warmest congratulations go to Paul Boissier on being selected for this marvellous job. I have no doubt whatsoever that he will enjoy it as much as I have. For me, it has been an enriching experience to work for such a wonderful organisation. My very best wishes go to Paul and to everyone in the RNLI family, past and present, for even greater success in the future.’
During his time at the RNLI, Andrew has led on the creation and introduction of:
· the world’s first Lifeboat College at the RNLI’s Headquarters in Poole, Dorset
· a world-class lifeguard service that now provides seamless rescue from the beach to the open sea on more than 140 of the UK’s busiest beaches
· several key inland lifeboat stations, including four on the tidal reaches of the River Thames in response to the Marchioness inquiry
· an internationally capable flood rescue deployment team
· hovercraft to the operational fleet
· a central RNLI Memorial, for which he, personally, raised £60,000 by cycling from Poole to Rome.
