Rhett Hatcher
Chief Executive, UK Chamber of Shipping
Rhett joined the Chamber of Shipping as the CEO in March 2024, after leaving the Royal Navy and most recently the role of UK National Hydrographer, Deputy Chief Executive and Director for Defence and Data Acquisition at the UK Hydrographic Office.
During his time in the Navy, Rhett served as a bridge watchkeeper, attack helicopter pilot, warfare officer and Joint staff officer on operations all over the world.
He held sea and air command appointments in HM Ships Penzance, Bulwark and Protector and 815 Naval Air Squadron respectively. Rhett has worked extensively across government departments in Whitehall, developing policy options for political choice on issues regarding futures and strategic analysis, military capability, counter terrorism, Joint operations and international security.
Rhett holds a Masters from Kings College London and is a graduate of the Higher Command and Staff course and US Capstone Course.
Rhett is a Younger Brother of Trinity house, an Honorary Freeman of the worshipful company of Wax Chandlers and President of the Royal Navy Hang gliding and Paragliding Association. He lives in the West country and is most happy when near, on, in or above the sea!