Former RNLI Chief Executive Receives CBE for His Lifesaving Charity Work

Mark Dowie honoured by The King at Buckingham Palace

Former RNLI Chief Executive Mark Dowie has been awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his outstanding contributions to lifesaving charity work. He received the honour from His Majesty The King at Buckingham Palace today (4th February).

Mark was accompanied at the ceremony by his wife, Hazel, and son, Tom.

Leading the RNLI Through Challenging Years

Mark took on the role of RNLI Chief Executive in May 2019 and led the organisation through some of its most demanding years. Under his leadership, lifeboat crews launched more than 45,000 times, and the charity’s lifeboat crews and lifeguards saved over 2,000 lives.

Reflecting on his award, Mark said:

“I am very honoured and humbled to receive this award but see this as recognition for the sacrifice, courage and commitment given by everyone at the RNLI during my tenure.

“Leading the RNLI was an enormous privilege, and I have many fond memories of all the people I met and the places I visited as Chief Executive across the UK, Ireland and further afield.

“Its people are at the heart of the RNLI’s lifesaving work – 97% of our frontline lifesavers are volunteers, selflessly giving their time and commitment to save lives at sea – the charity could not do what it does without them.”

During his time in charge, Mark oversaw the RNLI’s response to major challenges, including the pandemic, rising inflation, increased demand for services, and growing public scrutiny.

Recognised for His Leadership

Janet Legrand, Chair of the RNLI, praised Mark’s leadership during his five-year tenure:

“The five years of Mark’s tenure were some of the most turbulent in the RNLI’s 200-year history, and the RNLI was so fortunate to have Mark at the helm to navigate those challenges.

“From dealing with the impact of the pandemic, rising inflation, a significant increase in demand, and heightened public scrutiny, Mark met these challenges head on. He left the RNLI in a solid position for the future, as we embark on our third century of lifesaving.”

Mark played a key role in securing the first-ever UN Resolution on Drowning Prevention in 2021 and helped oversee the charity’s 200th-anniversary celebrations.

In January last year, the RNLI Board of Trustees unanimously appointed Mark as an Honorary Life Governor and Vice President—the first time a Chief Executive has ever received this title.

Returning to His Lifeboat Station

Before leading the RNLI, Mark volunteered as Lifeboat Operations Manager at Salcombe Lifeboat Station, and he now plans to return to volunteering at the same station later this year.

Mark confirmed:

“Since retiring last June, I have been enjoying time with my family but intend to return to volunteering with the RNLI as a Vice President and as a fundraising team member at my home station later this year.”

Mark most recently met His Majesty The King in Poundbury, Dorset, when unveiling a plaque for the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Green Canopy initiative—a project linked to the RNLI’s gold medal-winning Chelsea Flower Show garden in 2022.

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Mark’s dedication to lifesaving continues, even after stepping down as Chief Executive. With a legacy of resilience, leadership, and service, his return to volunteering ensures his impact on the RNLI will endure.

Photo: Mark with wife Hazel and son Tom at Buckingham Palace – Credit: RNLI