Simon Kelly
Simon Kelly, Commodore, Royal Navy (Ret.) is a senior maritime strategist and defence leader with over 27 years of experience in the Royal Navy, specialising in contingent operational-level planning and multinational maritime operations. His career spans global theatres—from the Arctic to the Indo-Pacific—where he has commanded warships, led task groups, and shaped UK naval strategy in support of national and allied objectives.
As Deputy Commander UK Strike Forces, Simon was responsible for the planning, execution, and command of UK Maritime Forces within a globally deployable, high-readiness battle staff. He led the inaugural NATO Combined Task Force (Atlantic), delivering integrated operations and enhancing alliance readiness. He also directed the Royal Navy’s Indo-Pacific Maritime Coherence Network, conducting contingent planning to align UK naval posture with evolving regional dynamics and strategic priorities.
Simon oversaw the operational integration and readiness of Royal Navy Strike and Commando Forces, ensuring these specialist units remained agile, cohesive, and capable of delivering effect across expeditionary and amphibious domains. He championed force development, talent management, and team resilience—building empowered, high-performing units ready for complex missions.
Previously, Simon commanded HMS Albion and the UK Littoral Strike Group (North), deploying over 2,000 personnel and multiple platforms—including HMS Defender, HMS Lancaster, RFA Mounts Bay, and RFA Argus—on missions ranging from maritime security to strategic influence. These operations were delivered under the pressures of the Covid-19 pandemic and the early stages of the Ukraine conflict.
Simon’s leadership style blends strategic clarity with a people-first ethos, integrating coaching and mentoring into every command. Now transitioning into defence and maritime consultancy, he offers deep operational insight, multinational experience, and a collaborative approach to help organisations plan effectively, build capability, and lead with confidence.
