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Former RNLI operations directors Michael Vlasto on the 200 Voices podcast
200 Voices an RNLI podcast

‘The biggest driver for me was to make sure none of our people lost their lives’

Episode 81 – Then and Now: Michael Vlasto

In 200 years, the RNLI has seen many changes. We hear from the man who played a key role in transforming it into the organisation we know today.

From launching the concept of prevention to pushing for cutting-edge technology, Michael Vlasto OBE made his mark on the RNLI during his 38-year career, which included 16 years as Operations Director.

In this episode, Michael reflects on how the organisation evolved under his watch – a period that would see the introduction of the charity’s lifeguard service, hovercrafts, and lifeboats on the Thames. During this time, the RNLI would go from being a European lifeboats service to an international lifesaving organisation.