Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust announces Vice Admiral Sir Martin Connell KCB CBE as its next chair

Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Vice Admiral Sir Martin Connell KCB CBE as its next chair. Sir Martin will take up the position in November 2026, succeeding Admiral Sir Trevor Soar KCB OBE DL after ten years in post.

The announcement marks a planned transition at a moment of stability for the Trust, following its 40th anniversary and the launch of a new 10-year strategy that sets out its ambition to become a world leading maritime heritage destination.

Sir Martin recently retired from a successful 38-year career in the Royal Navy, during which he held some of the most senior leadership roles in defence, including Second Sea Lord. His appointment reflects both his professional experience and a long-standing personal link to Chatham’s story. Having commanded HMS CHATHAM earlier in his career, he takes up with the role with a clear understanding of the significance of the historic estate and its ongoing relevance.

During his naval career, Sir Martin served as Deputy and Interim Chief of the Royal Navy; led force generation and training of all 40,000 people within the Royal Navy; and acted as Senior Responsible Owner for the UK Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carrier Programme. He has also represented the UK overseas as Naval Attaché at the British Embassy in Washington DC and commanded the aircraft carrier, HMS ILLUSTRIOUS. Alongside his executive roles, he brings extensive board experience across charity and public bodies, including as Chair of Greenwich Hospital Advisory Board, Vice Chair of the Naval Children’s Charity and Non-Executive Director of the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

Sir Martin will succeed Sir Trevor Soar, who has guided the Trust through a decade of transformation since his appointment in 2016. Under Sir Trevor’s leadership, the charity has secured financial independence, delivered major capital projects, and successfully navigated the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. His tenure has helped position the Trust as a leading voice within the UK heritage sector.

Sir Trevor Soar said: 

It has been a privilege to serve as Chair during such a formative period for the Trust. We have achieved a great deal together and I am proud of the organisation Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust has become. Sir Martin brings a wealth of experience and a genuine connection to Chatham, and I am confident he will build on this strong platform in the years ahead.

Sir Martin Connell said: 

The Historic Dockyard Chatham holds a special place in the story of our nation’s maritime past, and I am honoured to have been appointed Chair. The Trust has set a clear and ambitious course for the future, and I am excited to work with the Trustees, staff, volunteers, and partners to help deliver it.