Matt Leat serves as Deputy Chief Coastguard at His Majesty’s Coastguard, where his expertise and commitment drive advances in maritime search and rescue operations across the UK. Joining the organisation in 2010 at Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre London, Matt brought with him a wealth of experience as a Thames Waterman and Lighterman, previously captaining high-speed passenger vessels. He also commanded the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s busiest lifeboat station in London, honing his skills in emergency response and leadership.
Throughout his Coastguard career, Matt has held a range of pivotal operational and management positions, including Search Mission Co-ordinator for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee River Pageant. He has contributed as a technical trainer, fulfilled silver and gold command roles, and led the development and implementation of operational technology as its senior user.
Now, as Deputy Chief Coastguard, Matt oversees the HM Coastguard national network, the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC), national network workforce planning, and operational technology across the service for present and future Coastguard needs. Matt is the Chief Officer Group lead / senior user for the Command and Control system replacement programme.
Matt is the chair of the UK’s 999-112 Liaison Committee, which represents all organisations that have a role to play in delivering and managing the 999-112 service.
Matt is married to Emily and resides in Gosport. Outside of his professional responsibilities, his hobbies include road cycling.
