Our people

We are diverse

Our vision at the National Oceanography Centre is to be the world’s most innovative ocean research institution, making sense of changing seas for the benefit of humanity.

We recognise that we cannot successfully do this without a strong and shared commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion from our people which underpin all of NOC’s shared values. At NOC we value individual differences and the rich diversity that this brings. We want to ensure that no-one is at a disadvantage or feels excluded because of who they are, what they believe in or the experiences that they bring.

We are committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion across our organisation and in our approach to working with others outside the organisation. As such, we aim to have a diverse workforce with colleagues from all backgrounds.

We are committed to equality in the workplace and to unlocking the creative and innovative potential that comes from diversity so all our people feel valued and are able to perform at their best by being able to be themselves at work – so all are included and no one feels left out because of their race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin), age, gender identity, religion and beliefs, disability, sexual orientation, social background, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity. We will actively seek to avoid discrimination on the grounds of the above characteristics. NOC does not, and will not, tolerate racism nor any other forms of prejudice and discrimination, that ultimately undermines the dignity and value either of its colleagues or anyone else.

Our commitments extend beyond our duties and requirements under the Equality Act. They are a very cornerstone of who we are and why we exist. Through a dedicated and inclusive culture, strong human empathy, alongside the strength of our policies, procedures, expectations and ways of working, we continue to create a positive and supportive environment for everyone, allowing them in reaching their full potential and in bringing out their very best self.

We are the winners of the Equality, Inclusivity & Diversity Initiative Award

The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) is delighted to have won the Equality, Inclusivity & Diversity Initiative Award at the Hampshire Business Awards 2023.

The Award acknowledges businesses that have shown leadership in promoting diversity in all its forms, providing equal opportunities, and fostering an inclusive environment for all. It recognises those who’ve made a significant impact in championing equality, inclusivity, and diversity and serves as a role model for others to follow.

NOC won on the collective ‘one NOC’ success of its internal Unite in Pride 2023 campaign, spearheaded by a planning group from the Culture Club, which comprises over 50 colleagues who volunteer to work together to create a sense of belonging for all staff.

Across all four sites, from ships to shore, NOC proudly hosted its inaugural Progress flag-raising event during Pride Month, a global celebration of LGBTQIA+ rights and achievements, and a poignant reminder of the ongoing fight for equality. NOC’s active participation in this celebration underscores the pivotal role diversity plays in propelling innovation and progress across diverse fields, such as academia, oceanography, and engineering.

Leadership and Governance

Overseeing our mission to Make Sense of Changing Seas and deliver Public Benefit from the work we do

NOC Executive

Members of the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) Executive between them have management responsibility for the Centre’s entire budget and their responsibilities span the full mission of the Centre.

Board of Trustees​

The Board of Trustees are the governing authority for the NOC and are there to help define our strategy, monitor performance, make key decisions, and set the delegations that enable and empower the operation of the organisation.