Mat is an Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) specialist with significant operational experience in the Atlantic, Barents, Mediterranean, Indian & Pacific Oceans, and the South China Sea.

Joining the Royal Navy in 2005 Mat spent the early part of his career working in the submarine service, with initial training and qualification on HMS VANGUARD, before assignments to the fast attack submarines HMS TORBAY and HMS TRIUMPH. In 2014, he moved to the surface fleet and served on the frigate HMS SUTHERLAND, with duties including escorting the new aircraft carrier HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH, ASW patrols in the Atlantic and High North, and a full operational workup.

In 2017, Mat became the senior ASW instructor at the Maritime Warfare School, providing tactical and operational training to the UK, NATO, and other international partners. In 2020 he was appointed as XO of HMS KENT, completing further High North operations, a full regeneration package, and two Carrier Strike Group deployments including seven months in the Indo-Asia-Pacific. In 2023 he was promoted to Commander and, following further patrols in the South China Sea as CO of HMS SPEY, Mat assumed Command of HMS PORTLAND.

Mat believesthat our behaviours, how we demonstrate trust and how we act with respect, shape our lives as good sailors and shipmates. He attributes his values and accomplishments to his wife, who inspires him with her sacrifice, support, and kindness, and his children, who remind him to be grateful every day. Mat holds an MA in Intelligence and International Relations, is completing a PhD in Organisational Psychology, and is the Chairman of the Royal Navy American Football Association. Mat does not golf.