Head of operations at Red Funnel is leaving the Isle of Wight ferry firm to take up a new role with the RNLI. 

Leanna Lakes, who has worked at the company for the last four years, is stepping down from her role as operations director in spring 2025.

Leanna is to become the new chief operating officer and director of regions for the RNLI.

Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, said: “Leanna has been integral in setting our course for an exciting future, improving the reliability of our service.

"This includes our proposal to upgrade and redesign facilities in East Cowes, along with our partnership with Artemis Technologies (ATL) and the replacement of our vehicle ferry fleet in the coming years."

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Leanna joined Red Funnel in 2020.

Prior to that, she spent three years working for Condor Ferries where she held the position of head of safety and compliance.

Leanna is a master mariner with over 20 years’ experience in the industry at both a national and international level. 

Fran Collins added: “We all wish Leanna well in her new role, especially within a charity which is so close to our hearts at Red Funnel.”