The Marine Management Organisation has confirmed the appointment of Elysia McCaffrey as its next Chief Executive Officer, with her tenure due to begin on 1 April 2026.
McCaffrey will join the MMO from the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority, where she currently serves as Chief Executive. She replaces Michelle Willis, who has been acting in the role since September 2023.
Board Signals Regulatory Focus
Les Philpott, Chair of the Marine Management Organisation, said the Board was “pleased to announce the appointment of Elysia McCaffrey as the next Chief Executive of MMO”.
Philpott added that McCaffrey “brings a strong track record of leadership in public service with significant experience leading complex regulatory and operational organisations”.
He said that “at a time when pressures on our seas continue to increase, MMO’s role in balancing economic growth with the protection of the marine environment has never been more important”, and stated that her leadership would be “key to ensuring the organisation continues to deliver Government priorities and supports the development of a sustainable blue economy for the future”.
Philpott also thanked Michelle Willis for her period as Acting Chief Executive, stating that “over the past two and a half years, her leadership has strengthened the organisation and enhanced our response to the growing ambitions of our stakeholders and customers, including delivering on our government’s policies.”
Background In Enforcement And Public Policy
McCaffrey has more than twenty years’ experience across the public and civil service. Before leading the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority, she held senior roles in the Government Equalities Office and the Cabinet Office.
At the GLAA, she has led national work focused on protecting vulnerable people from exploitation and tackling labour abuse, experience that signals continued emphasis on regulatory oversight within the MMO’s remit.
Commenting on her appointment, McCaffrey said: “I am delighted to be joining MMO and look forward to building on the excellent progress the organisation has made in ensuring the health of our marine environment and the industries that depend upon it.”
She added: “MMO plays a vital role in safeguarding England’s waters while enabling sustainable activity across our marine sectors. I am excited to contribute to this important agenda, helping to ensure that our seas remain healthy, productive and resilient for generations to come.”
The MMO oversees marine licensing, fisheries management, marine planning and enforcement in English waters. McCaffrey’s appointment comes at a time of continued scrutiny from the fishing industry and wider maritime sectors over regulatory delivery, enforcement policy and the balance between environmental protection and economic activity.
