MarRI-UK would like to extend its sincere thanks to John Howie MBE as he steps down as Chair of the MarRI-UK Strategy Board following his departure from Babcock.
John has made an outstanding contribution to MarRI-UK and to the wider UK maritime research and innovation community. Throughout his tenure, he has provided strong leadership, strategic vision and unwavering support, helping to shape the direction and growth of the organisation. His commitment to collaboration across industry, academia and government has strengthened MarRI-UK’s role as a leading voice for maritime innovation and has helped foster a more connected and innovative maritime ecosystem. John’s leadership has been instrumental in establishing the vision and strategic priorities, building valuable partnerships, supporting industry-led initiatives, and advancing the UK’s ambitions for maritime research, innovation and sustainability.
On behalf of the Strategy Board and the wider MarRI-UK community, we would like to express our sincere gratitude for his exceptional service and wish him every success in the future.
As we build on this strong foundation, we are pleased to announce that Sarah Kenny OBE, Chair and Chief Executive of BMT, will take on the role of Interim Chair of the MarRI-UK Strategy Board.
Sarah is a highly respected leader within the maritime sector, bringing extensive experience across industry, innovation and defence. As Interim Chair, she will provide leadership and continuity for MarRI-UK while arrangements are made for the appointment of a permanent Chair. Her appointment comes at an exciting time for the organisation and the wider maritime community, with the forthcoming publication of UK Maritime Technology Roadmap, which will set out an ambitious vision for the future of maritime research and innovation in the UK. As it is launched, we want to ensure that MarRI-UK is well positioned to support its ambitions, strengthen collaboration across the sector, and continue delivering consistent value for our members. Under Sarah’s leadership, the Strategy Board will work closely with stakeholders across industry, academia and government to ensure MarRI-UK remains a trusted forum for collaboration, innovation and strategic thinking.
Commenting on her appointment, Sarah said:
“I am delighted to support MarRI-UK as Interim Chair. The organisation plays a vital role in bringing together industry, academia and government to advance maritime research and innovation. I look forward to working with the Strategy Board and the wider MarRI-UK community to continue driving innovation and reinforcing the UK’s position as a global leader in maritime technology and capability.”
MarRI-UK looks forward to working closely with Sarah during this exciting period are confident that, by building on the legacy established by John, MarRI-UK will continue to play a leading role in shaping the future of maritime innovation in the UK.
We thank John Howie once again for his exceptional contribution and warmly welcome Sarah Kenny as Interim Chair of the MarRI-UK Strategy Board.