Royal Navy Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Royal Navy has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, legal, people, and staff coordination.

Driven by a commitment to national security, Royal Navy operates as the United Kingdom's naval warfare force, maintaining a sophisticated fleet and upholding maritime defense.

Leadership Roles at Royal Navy

  • Chief Executive Officer - Long Achai
  • Co-Chief Executive Officer - Yassine Boumaden
  • Chief of Staff To Director Naval Staff - Nick Geneux
  • Senior Advisory Laywer, Naval Legal Services Chief of Staff - Graeme Knox
  • Chief of Staff & Deputy Director, People Change - Jennifer Mehta
  • Chief People Officer - David Axford
  • Long Achai - Chief Executive Officer

    Long Achai, the Chief Executive Officer at Royal Navy, directs overall strategic planning and operational execution for the United Kingdom's naval warfare force. This leadership role involves overseeing the deployment and readiness of a technologically sophisticated fleet, including aircraft carriers, submarines, destroyers, and frigates. Achai ensures alignment with national defense objectives and manages the integration of advanced maritime technologies across all operational units. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to fostering international partnerships and maintaining the Royal Navy's global presence. By driving efficiency and innovation, Long Achai significantly impacts the force's capacity to project power and secure maritime interests. This executive is responsible for the ultimate success of naval operations and the long-term strategic direction of the service.

    Yassine Boumaden - Co-Chief Executive Officer

    Yassine Boumaden, the Co-Chief Executive Officer at Royal Navy, shares responsibility for the overarching strategic direction and operational oversight of the United Kingdom's naval warfare force. Boumaden focuses on enhancing the operational capabilities of the fleet, which comprises advanced ships, submarines, and aircraft. This leadership position involves coordinating efforts to maintain the readiness of assets such as ballistic missile submarines and nuclear fleet submarines, crucial for the UK's nuclear deterrent. The Co-Chief Executive Officer drives initiatives to modernize naval assets and implement cutting-edge defense technologies. Yassine Boumaden ensures seamless collaboration between different branches of the naval service and supports the strategic objectives of national security. By optimizing resource allocation and operational workflows, Boumaden contributes directly to the effectiveness and resilience of the Royal Navy's global operations.

    Nick Geneux - Chief of Staff To Director Naval Staff

    Nick Geneux, the Chief of Staff To Director Naval Staff at Royal Navy, provides critical support and strategic coordination for the Director of the Naval Staff. This role involves managing the flow of information, prioritizing key initiatives, and ensuring the efficient execution of directives across naval operations. Geneux oversees the administrative and strategic planning functions that enable the Director to effectively lead the naval staff. The Chief of Staff To Director Naval Staff facilitates communication between senior leadership and operational units, ensuring strategic alignment and timely decision-making. Nick Geneux plays a pivotal part in optimizing the operational tempo and effectiveness of the naval command structure. By streamlining processes and enhancing organizational efficiency, Geneux directly supports the strategic objectives of the Royal Navy's fleet and personnel.
    Graeme Knox, the Senior Advisory Laywer, Naval Legal Services Chief of Staff at Royal Navy, leads the legal advisory functions and manages the operational aspects of naval legal services. This critical role ensures that all naval operations and policies adhere to national and international law, providing expert counsel on maritime legal matters. Knox oversees the strategic direction of legal support for the fleet, including complex issues related to naval warfare, international waters, and defense agreements. The Senior Advisory Laywer, Naval Legal Services Chief of Staff coordinates legal resources to address challenges arising from the operation of technologically sophisticated ships, submarines, and aircraft. Graeme Knox's leadership ensures the integrity and legality of naval actions, safeguarding the United Kingdom's interests. This executive's expertise is vital for maintaining compliance and mitigating legal risks across all Royal Navy activities.

    Jennifer Mehta - Chief of Staff & Deputy Director, People Change

    Jennifer Mehta, the Chief of Staff & Deputy Director, People Change at Royal Navy, drives strategic initiatives focused on human capital management and organizational transformation within the naval service. This leadership position involves overseeing programs designed to enhance personnel readiness, development, and welfare across the fleet. Mehta directs efforts to implement effective change management strategies, ensuring that the Royal Navy's workforce is equipped to meet evolving defense requirements. The Chief of Staff & Deputy Director, People Change collaborates with senior leaders to foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. Jennifer Mehta's role is crucial in aligning people strategies with the broader mission of national maritime security. By optimizing human resources and driving positive change, Mehta significantly contributes to the effectiveness and morale of naval personnel.

    David Axford - Chief People Officer

    David Axford, the Chief People Officer at Royal Navy, directs the comprehensive human resources strategy and operations for the United Kingdom's naval warfare force. This executive is responsible for cultivating a high-performing workforce, overseeing talent acquisition, development, and retention across all ranks and specializations. Axford ensures that personnel policies support the operational demands of maintaining a technologically sophisticated fleet, including aircraft carriers, submarines, and frigates. The Chief People Officer champions initiatives that enhance crew well-being, professional growth, and overall morale, directly impacting operational readiness. David Axford plays a key role in aligning people strategies with the strategic objectives of national defense and maritime security. By fostering a robust and motivated workforce, Axford significantly contributes to the enduring strength and effectiveness of the Royal Navy.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Federal

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Royal Navy Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Royal Navy?
    Royal Navy is led by Long Achai (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Yassine Boumaden (Co-Chief Executive Officer) and Nick Geneux (Chief of Staff To Director Naval Staff).
    Who is part of Royal Navy’s executive team?
    The executive team of Royal Navy includes leaders such as Long Achai (Chief Executive Officer), Yassine Boumaden (Co-Chief Executive Officer), Nick Geneux (Chief of Staff To Director Naval Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Royal Navy have?
    Royal Navy has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Royal Navy’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Royal Navy includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Chief of Staff To Director Naval Staff, Senior Advisory Laywer, Naval Legal Services Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff & Deputy Director, People Change.