At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the reform of maritime registration regulations and ensure safety at sea.
- Company: Join the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, a key player in UK maritime safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Access to professional development and a supportive, diverse work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on maritime safety and regulatory change in the UK.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading complex programmes and influencing senior stakeholders.
The predicted salary is between 57515 - 57515 £ per year.
469045 Head of Registration Regulations Reform
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Apply before 11:55 pm on Monday 27th July 2026
Location: Southampton (This role is suitable for hybrid working)
Salary: £57,515 - A Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
Contract Type: Fixed Term (24 months with potential for extension and/or permanency – Flexible working, Full-time, Job share, Part-time
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is seeking a Head of Registration Regulations Reform implement the government’s maritime safety policy in the United Kingdom (UK) and works to prevent the loss of life and occurrence of pollution on the coast and at sea.
You will join the Directorate of UK Customer Maritime Services (UKCMS) which is responsible for the Registry of Shipping and Seafarers, Seafarer Certification, Seafarer Examinations, Seafarer Safety and Health, Business Transformation and Customer Insight, the Innovation Hub and the UK Shipping Concierge. The Directorate is responsible for the registration of all vessels on the UK Flag operating globally, provides support to UK seafarers working in the UK and internationally, issues certificates and conducts examinations for seafarers, represents the UK maritime offer, as well as horizon scanning for future regulatory change required in the maritime sector.
As the Head of Registration Regulations Reform, you will provide strategic leadership and overall accountability for the development and delivery of a programme to repeal and replace the Merchant Shipping (Registration of Ships) Regulations.
Top Responsibilities
- Setting the strategic direction, scope and objectives for the Registration Regulations reform, ensuring alignment with UKCMS transformation priorities and DfT policy intent.
- Translating complex legal, policy and operational issues into a clear, outcome‑focussed reform strategy.
- Providing leadership across the Directorate and wider MCA to establish a shared understanding of priorities, risks and delivery approach.
- Acting as the Senior Responsible Owner for the reform programme, accountable for delivery, governance, risk and benefits realisation.
- Establishing and maintaining effective programme structures, ensuring clarity of accountability, pace and delivery confidence.
- Overseeing the development of legislative solutions, including statutory instruments and associated mechanisms, ensuring coherence, quality and legal integrity.
For more information on the role and responsibilities please see the full job advert on CS Jobs using the link provided.
- Employer pension contribution of 28.97% of your salary. Read more about Civil Service Pensions here
- 25 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year of service (up to a maximum of 30 days annual leave).
- 8 Bank Holidays plus an additional Privilege Day to mark the King’s birthday.
- Access to the staff discount portal.
- Excellent career development opportunities and the potential to undertake professional qualifications relevant to your role paid for by the department, such as CIPD, Prince2, apprenticeships, etc.
- Joining a diverse and inclusive workforce with a range of staff communities to support all our colleagues.
- 24‑hour Employee Assistance Programme providing free confidential help and advice for staff.
- Flexible working options where we encourage a great work‑life balance.
About You
To be successful in this role you will need to have the following experience:
- Strong track record of leading complex, high‑risk programmes or regulatory/policy change in a government or comparable environment.
- Ability to operate effectively in ambiguous and evolving contexts, setting direction where clarity is not yet established.
- Proven ability to influence and build credibility with senior stakeholders across organisational and professional boundaries.
- Experience of managing risk, governance and assurance in high‑profile or sensitive work areas.
- Excellent judgement and ability to communicate complex issues clearly to non‑specialist audiences.
How to Apply
Read the full description and apply here: https://bit.ly/4f5cC4l
This vacancy closes at 23:55 on Monday 27th July 2026
Head of Registration Regulations Reform in Southampton employer: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Southampton where innovation meets public service. With a strong focus on employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to compliance and excellence, you will find meaningful opportunities to grow your career while making a significant impact on national safety and security.
Contact Details:
Maritime and Coastguard Agency Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Registration Regulations Reform in Southampton
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Registration Regulations Reform in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
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