The International Maritime Rescue Federation has announced that Caroline Jupe has been named as its new CEO. Ms Jupe will take on the role from 1 February 2023 following the retirement of Theresa Crossley, who has been CEO since November 2017.
“We are delighted that Caroline has emerged as the best candidate from a strong field of applicants. Her commitment to supporting IMRF members, combined with her enthusiasm and vision for the organisation, really shines through. We are confident that she is the right person to build on the huge progress that has been made in the past five years and to lead the organisation into the next stage of its development,” said Dean Lawrence, Chair of the IMRF.
“We would like to thank Theresa who has guided the organisation through a challenging time and leaves it in a stronger position than it was when she joined us,” he added.
Ms Jupe joined the IMRF in March 2016 as Fundraising Manager before becoming the organisation’s Head of Fundraising & Projects. She has played a key role in the development of several IMRF initiatives designed to improve the capabilities and best practices of search-and-rescue organisations around the world.
These include #WomenInSAR, which aims to increase the representation of women in the maritime sector, and #SARyouOK?, a campaign to increase awareness of mental health and wellbeing issues faced by SAR personnel.
“Maritime SAR is constantly evolving in response to new challenges, but we are stronger when we face those challenges – and work out solutions – together. That sharing of experience is at the heart of the IMRF and I am really excited to have the opportunity to lead this fantastic organisation as it continues to support the development of global SAR,” Ms Jupe said.
Although she will be stepping down, Ms Crossley will remain in a supporting role to help with preparations for the IMRF’s World Maritime Rescue Congress, which will be held in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, in June 2023.
