An existing volunteer Launch Authority at Fishguard RNLI has stepped up into the most senior operational volunteer role at station as the new Lifeboat Operations Manager.
RNLI/Cedwyn Rogers
Newly appointed volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager Cathy Beaton.
In the run up to the retirement of long-time volunteer Chris Williams earlier this year, the search for his successor began.
The successful candidate for the station management role was Cathy Beaton, who has been a part of the station management team since August 2024 when she joined as a volunteer Launch Authority (LA).
Leading the operations team, the role of Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM) involves managing station personnel and volunteers while ensuring regular team meetings are held and open communication is encouraged. It requires overseeing all operational activities to keep the lifeboat and associated equipment in a constant state of readiness for service. The position also includes liaising closely with local emergency services and representing the RNLI’s interests in operational matters. In collaboration with relevant RNLI personnel, the role also ensures that staff and volunteers meet the requirements of the RNLI Operational Competency Framework, to keep them safe when they go to sea. As a member of the Lifeboat Management Group, the LOM keeps the group informed of key operational updates and promotes awareness of RNLI welfare support within the station. Additionally, there is the option to undertake the responsibilities of LA, authorising lifeboat launches in line with current procedures.
Cathy is no stranger to people management and dealing with difficult situations, coming from a 40-year career in nursing with the NHS.
On her previous experience, and looking ahead new LOM Cathy, said:
‘Throughout those years I was committed to giving the best service possible to my patients and to the teams with whom I worked. I will do the same in this role.’
‘I love being part of the RNLI team. I see the LOM role as a way in which I can be more involved with the charity, which I am very happy to do and look forward to working more closely with the highly committed and highly skilled team at the station.’
As a station we are delighted that Cathy has chosen to take up the role as over the last 2 years she has proven herself to embody the core RNLI values of being Trustworthy, Courageous, Selfless and Dependable.
We look forward to this new chapter in the station’s history under her leadership.
Notes to editor:
• The attached image (Photo 1) shows newly appointed volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager Cathy Beaton. (20 November 2024) Image credit: RNLI/Gemma Gill
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For more information please contact Cedwyn Rogers, Lifeboat Press Officer on [email protected] or RNLI Regional Communications Manager Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith on [email protected] / 07977 728 315 or Regional Communications Lead Danielle Rush on [email protected] or 07786 668 829
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Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.
