Lesley Robinson OBE has announced she will step down as Chief Executive of marine trade body, British Marine, this summer after eight years in the role. A structured transition plan names the current Chief Finance and Operations Officer, Earle Stanner, as the next Chief Executive.
Robinson will remain in post over the coming months to work with Stanner and ensure continuity and a smooth handover. She joined British Marine from MDL Marinas in July 2018 and led the body through major change and challenge. Her tenure saw modernised governance, a new membership strategy and leadership and organisational improvement programmes.
Robinson also led the organisation’s response to the Covid period, including the cancellation of the 2020 Southampton International Boat Show. She served six years on the ICOMIA board as a non‑executive director, most recently as Treasurer, promoting UK leisure marine interests globally.
In 2021, she was appointed OBE for services to the leisure marine industry. “It has been an honour to lead British Marine through such a significant period,” Robinson said. She cited member support, industry lobbying, training programmes and evolving the UK’s key annual boat show among the highlights.
Robinson said she had enjoyed forming new partnerships, including with ABYA and the caravanning sector. “After eight years, it is the right time for me to hand over leadership to our new Chief Executive,” she added.
Under the transition plan, Robinson will continue to deliver priorities and then take on a part‑time consultancy role. “I am delighted to be able to assist like this and am looking forward to seeing where else I can also use my expertise to support the industry I love,” she said.
British Marine Chair Matthew Beckwith praised Robinson’s contribution, noting strengthened capability, credibility and influence.
“The Board is confident in Earle’s appointment, and in the continuity this transition provides,” Beckwith said. Robinson’s tenure saw growth in apprenticeships, expanded training, success for major events and the letting of Marine House.
