With a vision to inspire the next generation of Ocean advocates, our acclaimed CEO, Roger Maslin, has announced his retirement following seven years at the helm the UK’s largest aquarium, and the Ocean Conservation Trust, the charity that operates the National Marine Aquarium.
Since diving into the role in 2016, Roger has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have enhanced the OCT’s mission to inspire a deeper understanding of the Ocean and the need to restore and protect it. During his tenure, he has overseen the creation of our charity as we now know it, the Ocean Conservation Trust, bringing our Ocean advocacy work to the forefront. Seven years on, the OCT are now fundraising for and creating landmark Ocean initiatives including seagrass restoration and nationwide education programmes.
Roger also helped us to navigate the Covid-19 closure, successfully reopening and strengthening our position as the UK’s national aquarium, at the heart of Britain’s Ocean City. Having responded to difficult and unpredictable challenges, Roger will retire from his position having built a stronger foundation for the OCT and the NMA, both financially and operationally.
“Roger’s visionary leadership and dedication to marine conservation and education has been inspiring to see. Everyone who knows him (and his octopus costume at presentations!) will understand why his enthusiasm for the ocean has been infectious. The Board of Trustees of the OCT would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to him for his exemplary leadership and determination. As the OCT closes this chapter, we look forward to welcoming his successor to continue on with the mission: to protect our Ocean.” – Mark Lomas from the Board of Trustees
“It’s been an honour and a privilege to work alongside such an inspiring team, and this has not been an easy decision to make, but the timing feels right to pass the reins to the next CEO. The organisation does such vital work and I feel I have been given an incredible opportunity to make the Ocean a healthier place. It’s been a truly rewarding experience and I will always be completely committed to our cause. I know that the OCT and the NMA will continue to flourish and grow.” – Roger Maslin, Chief Executive Officer at the OCT
We have begun the recruitment process for our next leader when Roger stands down at the end of Summer. More information is available here.
