Meet the Executive

Chris is an Ultra Large Container Ship specialist at Southampton Port, Additionally, he serves as Chairman of the UKMPA, where he brings enthusiastic engagement and a forward-thinking vision to the professional association. With a history of dedicated service, Chris has played a pivotal role in various initiatives, including his tireless efforts on dangerous ladders campaigns. His collaborative personality and "can-do" attitude make him a valuable asset on any project. Chris is widely recognized for his instrumental role in modernizing the association, energizing the organization, and elevating its global presence. Through strategic initiatives such as revamping the association's magazine into an industry-recognized publication and implementing a new communication and engagement strategy, Chris has positioned the association for success in the modern era.

Peter is an outgoing, gregarious individual who enjoys social contact. A serving Tees Bay Pilot and former Humber pilot he came ashore in 1994 after 12 years at sea working on bulk carriers, oil rig supply vessels and Cunard passenger ships. He joined the UKMPA Executive in 2008 and has served as Secretary since 2010. He was elected to the European Maritime Pilots Association board as Vice President in 2019 and re-elected in 2023.

Alan is a Class 1 Medway Pilot and works as the UKMPA Honorary Treasurer acting also region 1 representative and as executive liaison officer with the widely respected Technical and Training Committee. Since joining the Committee in July 2022, he has played a key role in delivering the UKMPA conference programme, successfully raising its profile and impact.
With a maritime career spanning cargo, cruise, and nearly ten years as a Master in the ferry industry, Alan brings a wide breadth of operational experience and leadership to his role. His commitment to professional standards, training development, and strategic advocacy ensures that pilots remain effectively represented at all levels of the industry.
Alan’s pragmatic leadership style, combined with his ability to energise teams and deliver tangible outcomes, makes him a trusted voice in UK pilotage and a valued contributor to the UKMPA Executive.

Robert was elected onto the UKMPA executive in 2019. He is the Association’s membership secretary and acts as liaison to the UK Harbour Masters Association. He is currently a First-Class Pilot on the Forth estuary and in Campbeltown. He was previously an Aberdeen Pilot.
As a self employed Pilot of over 20 years experience, Robert has a wealth of experience in handling Pilotage contract matters with commercial CHA’s / SHA’s and Local Authorities. He is happy to discuss related issues with UKMPA members.

Chris is an Unrestricted Pilot at the Port of London Authority, where he also holds an Ultra Large Container Ship Authorization. Joining the Executive team in 2022, Chris brings with him a wealth of experience, having previously served as Chair of London's pilots.

Chris's innate talent for process and attention to detail has proven invaluable, particularly in leading our GDPR compliance efforts. As the UK Maritime Pilots' Association (UKMPA) becomes increasingly engaged, Chris's ability to provide checks and balances is essential.

With extensive experience in two-pilot operations, Chris serves as a valuable asset in driving improvements in best practices. His dedication and expertise make him an integral part of our team at the UKMPA.

James is a Tees Bay Pilot with a background in cargo, passenger, and dredging vessels, climbing to the ranks of Master. He has also spent time as a nautical lecturer at South Shields Marine School. James has a passion about improving working conditions for pilots, he is a strong advocate for mental health awareness in the maritime sector. He founded the mental health initiative 'Safe Haven,' which provides essential support and resources for pilots facing emotional challenges. Additionally, he created a Pilot Coaching Program focused on personal development and resilience, demonstrating his commitment to promoting wellbeing among his peers. As a current member of the UKMPA Section Committee, James actively works to enhance pilot wellbeing initiatives and elevate the profession’s visibility within the maritime industry. His leadership and advocacy efforts continue to inspire positive change, ensuring that the health and welfare of pilots are prioritised and supported.

Nev grew up in Hull and attended Trinity House School, where his passion for a career at sea was recognised early on.

Currently a Liverpool Pilot and a former Humber Pilot, Nev began his career in pilotage in 1999. Over the years, he has played an active role in the Liverpool Pilots' cooperative, serving in various capacities, including Representative and Treasurer. In 2008, Nev became a BRM(P) trainer, a role in which he has conducted Bridge Resource Management courses for both UK and international pilots. This experience has deepened his interest in the human factors aspect of pilotage.

Additionally, Nev has been involved in simulator training for Liverpool Pilots, trainees, and third-party individuals. Since 2016, he has also been engaged with the International Standard for Pilotage Organisation (ISPO), currently serving as the Designated Person for Liverpool Pilots.