Our leaders
Strong leadership gives us courage in adversity and the determination to fight and win.
We look to our leaders to support the entire Royal Navy in operating effectively and maintaining our long-standing influence on the global stage.
organisation / Our people
Leadership
We don’t believe leadership should be defined by the title you hold. Every member of the Royal Navy leads in the decisions and actions they take.
Admiral Sir Ben Key KCB CBE
First Sea Lord & Chief of Naval Staff
Rising through the ranks after joining as a University Cadet in 1984, Admiral Sir Ben Key has held the most senior position in the Royal Navy since 2021.
As the Chairman of the Navy Board, he’s responsible for the fighting effectiveness, efficiency and morale of the Naval Service - and for supporting the management and direction of the whole Armed Forces.
Follow the First Sea Lord on Twitter to see what he’s doing now.
As the Chairman of the Navy Board, he’s responsible for the fighting effectiveness, efficiency and morale of the Naval Service - and for supporting the management and direction of the whole Armed Forces.
Follow the First Sea Lord on Twitter to see what he’s doing now.
Vice Admiral Martin Connell CBE
Second Sea Lord
Responsible for everything people-related within the Royal Navy: recruitment, training, diversity, sport and family support, as well as bases and facilities.
Vice Admiral Martin Connell has served as a principal warfare officer, Commander of the UK’s Amphibious Task Group and most recently as the Royal Navy’s Force Generation Director.
Vice Admiral Martin Connell has served as a principal warfare officer, Commander of the UK’s Amphibious Task Group and most recently as the Royal Navy’s Force Generation Director.
Vice Admiral Andrew Burns CB OBE
Fleet Commander
Overseeing the development and deployment of the ships, submarines and aircraft in our arsenal, Vice Admiral Andrew Burns plays a critical role in keeping the Royal Navy afloat.
He’s also responsible for the training of all personnel, so that we perform at our best and we’re always ready to fight.
He’s also responsible for the training of all personnel, so that we perform at our best and we’re always ready to fight.
Our five pillars of leadership
Everyone, at every level, should live and breathe our leadership principles
Living & leading
Commitment. Courage. Discipline. Respect for Others. Integrity. Loyalty.
We live and lead our values at all times.
We live and lead our values at all times.
Self-leadership
Each one of should make the right choices and show the right behaviours, taking accountability for the way we conduct ourselves.
Leading others
We role model self-leadership. We support and inspire those we lead with respect, trust, inclusion and empowerment.
Command climates
We create opportunities for all.
Our command climates give everyone the chance to thrive.
Our command climates give everyone the chance to thrive.
Leading the Organisation
We provide the architecture, policies, strategies, tools and support that enable everyone to excel.
Looking for support?
Whether you’re looking to join, already with us, or a family member of serving personnel, we have a wide range of support available.