Lead the digital and technology transformation of one of the UK and Ireland’s most renowned charities

For over 200 years, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has had a singular purpose: to save lives at sea. Operating from more than 230 lifeboat stations, providing lifeguard cover on hundreds of beaches, and supported by over 50,000 volunteers, the RNLI has saved more than 147,000 lives to date. 

As demand for their services continues to grow and evolve, the RNLI is seeking a Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO) to lead their transformation into a forward-looking, digitally enabled enterprise. 

The opportunity 

The CDIO will define and deliver an end-to-end digital, data and technology strategy aligned to the RNLI’s “One Crew, One Plan” (2026–2030) strategy. 

The CDIO will play a central role in modernising how lifesaving services operate across lifeboats, lifeguards and water safety activity, ensuring crews and volunteers are equipped with the tools, insight and connectivity they need. 

The role will be responsible for: 

  • Acting as the organisation’s strategic technology leader, shaping and delivering a clear digital vision  
  • Leading a multi-year digital transformation programme to modernise operational and enterprise systems  
  • Enabling “connected lifesaving” through shared platforms and real-time data across crews, lifeguards and partners  
  • Building robust data capabilities, including governance, architecture and advanced analytics  
  • Leveraging AI, IoT and emerging technologies to support predictive and faster decision-making  
  • Modernising digital platforms supporting operations, volunteer management and training  
  • Reducing technology debt while improving accessibility, security and user experience  
  • Leading and developing the Information and Digital Services function 

The impact 

The RNLI is entering one of the most significant periods of transformation in its history. Demand for its services has increased fourfold over the past 50 years, while the nature of incidents has shifted dramatically towards coastal and near-shore activity. 

Through leveraging technology, the CDIO’s leadership will enable: 

  • Faster rescue responses: Digital tools and real-time insight that improve coordination and decision-making during incidents 
  • Safer operations: Enhanced fleet readiness and situational awareness across lifeboats and lifeguards 
  • Volunteer experience: Simpler, more intuitive systems supporting over 50,000 volunteers 
  • Data-driven decision making: Insight across operations, engineering, fundraising and supporter engagement 
  • Future-ready services: A digitally enabled RNLI that can adapt to changing patterns of water use and demand 
  • Strategic transformation: Delivery of the “One Crew, One Plan” strategy through connected, data-enabled services 

Experience and requirements

Essential: 

  • Executive leadership of Digital, Data and Technology functions in complex organisations  
  • Delivery of large-scale digital transformation programmes  
  • Experience in multi-stakeholder, distributed or operational environments  
  • Strong understanding of infrastructure, enterprise architecture, data governance and cybersecurity  
  • Experience leading organisational and cultural change  
  • Ability to influence at executive and board level  

Technical expertise: 

  • Knowledge of modern digital platforms, cloud, data and integration architectures  
  • Experience with AI, automation and IoT  
  • Strong understanding of data strategy, analytics and governance  

Desirable: 

  • Experience in charity, emergency services, maritime or similar mission-led environments  
  • Familiarity with volunteer-led organisations or public fundraising models  
  • Relevant degree and certifications (e.g. ITIL, TOGAF, PRINCE2, CISSP, CISM)  

Personal qualities: 

  • Strong alignment to the RNLI’s mission  
  • Strategic, forward-thinking and impact-oriented  
  • Collaborative and inclusive leadership style  
  • Clear communicator of complex concepts  
  • Resilient and adaptable 

Additional details

Location: The role is based at the RNLI’s lifesaving support centre in Poole, Dorset. The RNLI operates a hybrid working model, with an expected on-site presence of three days per week.  

Download the full role specification

The full role specification includes detailed background on the RNLI’s “One Crew, One Plan” strategy, the executive team structure, and comprehensive information on the organisation’s digital transformation agenda.

Download the full role specification

Apply for this role

To register your interest or apply for the Chief Digital and Information Officer position at the RNLI, please complete the form below. 

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For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact: 

Olivia Ogilvie, Head of Research, La Fosse Executive olivia.ogilvie@lafosse.com | 07703 755261