Barry Dock RNLI welcomes Olivia Harrison as new Chair

Olivia, who at 39 is one of the youngest RNLI lifeboat station Chairs, officially begins her role this month and brings a wealth of experience to the station. As Chief Executive of the Learned Society of Wales, she has overall responsibility for the strategic direction of the organisation. Originally a chartered structural engineer, Olivia transitioned into higher education policy, quickly becoming a recognised voice in research and innovation in the UK.

Olivia is a Barry Island resident who loves living in Barry and is keen to give something back to her community. Passionate about promoting inclusivity and diversity, she is an avid scuba diver and occasional Barry Island Parkrunner, and far from being a completely new face at Barry Dock RNLI, Olivia has already supported the station at various events. Recently she was bucket collecting on a freezing Saturday at the Principality Stadium ahead of the Wales v Australia rugby match.

Speaking about her appointment, Olivia said:

‘I am honoured to step into this role and continue the incredible work of Stuart McMillan. Stuart leaves big shoes to fill, and I am looking forward to building on his legacy and for the opportunity of working with such a dedicated team across Barry Dock.

‘I will bring my own perspective and style to the role, building on what has come before while ensuring we evolve in a way that strengthens Barry Dock RNLI for the future. The RNLI’s one crew ethos—uniting crew, volunteers, and supporters—is at the heart of everything we do, and I am keen to play my part in steering Barry Dock RNLI forward.’

Paul Eastment, Area Operations Manager South Wales welcomed Olivia’s appointment:

‘Olivia’s leadership experience and passion for the RNLI make her a fantastic choice as Chair. Her strategic vision, combined with her local connections and commitment to teamwork, will help ensure that Barry Dock RNLI continues to thrive as part of the wider community.’

Notes to editor - Key Information About the Barry Dock Lifeboat Station:

• Photo credits: Barry Dock RNLI

• Barry Dock Lifeboat Station has been saving lives since 1901, and in July 2024, the station opened its new state-of-the-art facility.

• The RNLI Visitor Experience, opened in 2017, was one of the UK’s first RNLI drowning prevention centres, focusing on beach safety education for families.

• The RNLI provides a 24-hour search and rescue service across the UK and Ireland.

• Barry Dock Lifeboat Station operates an all-weather lifeboat and an inshore D-class lifeboat, providing search and rescue services along the Vale of Glamorgan coast.

For further information, please contact:

Lisa Newberry, Lifeboat Press Officer, Barry Dock Lifeboat Station, 07977 922889. Alternatively, you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728315, or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.