In a review of the Society’s succession plans, it was agreed to introduce the roles of Deputy Commonwealth President Designate and Immediate Past Deputy Commonwealth President, both roles are non-voting members of the Board of Trustees and Commonwealth Council. The DCP Designate will be appointed in the year before the end of the current DCP’s term and at the end of the current DCP’s term, they will transition into the Immediate Past DCP position.
The term of our current DCP, Clive Holland will end in July 2025 and therefore we commenced the recruitment for the DCP Designate earlier this year. After much consultation, recommendation and endorsement from the Board of Trustees, Commonwealth Council and our Commonwealth President, HRH Prince Michael of Kent GCVO, it gives us great pleasure to announce that Dr Stephen Beerman from Canada will become our Deputy Commonwealth President Designate from July 2024.
Many of you will know Steve given his international leadership in the drowning prevention field and we are delighted that he will taking on this senior official appointment.
Commenting on the appointment Commonwealth President, HRH Prince Michael of Kent GCVO stated, “ Given Steve’s experience and understanding of the global drowning burden and his international connections, I believe he will be an outstanding Ambassador for the Society”.
Dr Beerman said “It is a privilege to provide leadership for drowning prevention, youth leadership development and skills training with the Royal Life Saving Society when global attention and support for drowning prevention is increasing. The RLSS is well positioned to collaborate with member federations to reduce drowning through awareness, education and actions that enhance community resilience. The RLSS Strategic Plan will guide us to reduce the burden of drowning, improve lives and build organisational capacity. It is an honour to be part of a skilled, thoughtful and strong RLSS Board of Trustees. I look forward to learning and building relationships with the RLSS Commonwealth Council and partners”.
