Meet The Team
Meet the team who are ready to help you begin studying for your next maritime diploma.
Andrew Deere
Managing Director
Ian Biles
Founder / Training Director
Ashley Rennie
Operations Director
Matthew Elliott
Commercial Manager
Beth Cook
Global Account Manager
Keely Moss
Global Account Manager
Chloe Tribe
Marketing Manager
Vicki Lingard
Accounts Receivable
Andrea Hill
Student Liason Officer
Tatum Le Patourel
Design Studio Manager
Rudy
Head of Wellbeing
Andrew Deere
Managing Director
Andrew has been at the MPI Group since 1988, and one of his highlights is the fantastic team he works with and the unique aspects of the maritime industry we’re involved in.
When asked for a fun fact, Andrew told us he used to have a joke about inflation, but it’s hardly worth it now…
Outside of work, Andrew’s interests include golf, spending time with family, and cheering for Manchester United—though not necessarily in that order! Italy holds a special place in his heart; its beauty and delicious cuisine make it a top destination for him.
Matthew Elliott
Commercial Manager
Matt has been with Maritime Training Academy since 2018 and really enjoys his role enhancing brand awareness and showcasing how our courses benefit those in the industry.
Beyond work, Matt loves football and is an avid Chelsea supporter. He also enjoys golf and taking long walks with his Fox Red Labrador. Matt once appeared on Blind Date, and although no romance was on the cards, went on a memorable trip to Finland to see the Northern Lights!
Matt has visited many countries and spent 6 months traveling round South-East Asia and lived in Australia for a year, where he fell in love with Sydney. Florida also holds a special place in his heart so it’s no surprise Fort Lauderdale is Matt’s favourite boat show.
Beth Cook
Global Account Manager
Beth has been at the Maritime Training Academy since 2015 and says the most rewarding part of her role is hearing her students’ success stories.
In terms of yacht shows, Monaco and Cannes take the top spot; events filled with meeting students in a buzzing atmosphere. So it’s no surprise Beth’s favourite holiday destination is the South of France, although Mexico is a very close second!
Outside of work Beth, enjoys long dog walks, socialising with friends and family, sunny holidays and has recently found a love of running.
Chloe Tribe
Marketing Manager
Chloe joined the Maritime Training Academy team in 2022, and her best aspects of the job are the wonderful colleagues at Maritime Training Academy and witnessing the success stories of our students.
Outside of work, Chloe loves quality time with family and friends, watching rugby and formula one and the occasional ski trip!
At the time of writing, Chloe is also currently training to run the London Marathon! Her favourite country visited is Mauritius, though this might be down to the fact it was pre-children and therefore the last of her relaxing holidays.
Keely Moss
Global Account Manager
Keely has been part of the Maritime Training Academy team since 2021 and finds the most joy in interacting with students and embracing the daily variety the job brings.
Outside of work, she cherishes moments with friends and family, loves pilates and has a passion for traveling. Dubai holds a special place in Keely’s heart as her favourite country she has visited.
Vicki Lingard
Accounts Manager
Vicki joined Peel House in 2021 and has been a part of the Maritime Training Academy team since 2022. Her favourite aspect of the job is assisting with student queries.
Vicki has a passion for live music and attends numerous concerts, spending many summer weekends at music festivals – leading to a small but growing collection of bright-coloured bucket hats! She also enjoys staying updated on current affairs and exploring history.
When it comes to travel, Mexico tops Vicki’s list as her favourite country—its beauty, incredible cuisine, and the warmth of its people make it truly special, even if tequila isn’t her first drink of choice!
Andrea Hill
Student Liason Officer
Andrea has been with the Maritime Training Academy since early 2021. Her favourite parts of the job are connecting with all our students and visiting boat shows around the world.
She has first-hand experience working in the maritime industry and was the first female Operator Maintainer Mine Warfare to serve onboard a warship.
Outside of work, Andrea enjoys listening to music, going to concerts and spending time with family.
Tatum Le Patourel
Design Studio Manager
Tate joined the Maritime Training Academy team in 2016 and says the best part of her job is the fantastic people she gets to work with!
In her free time, she enjoys a variety of activities, including sea swimming, long walks and hikes, playing Netball and catching up with friends.
Tate also loves going to the gym and once came second in a novice strong woman competition! Tate has loved every country she’s visited but when picking a favourite, it has to be Canada.
Ian Biles
Founder / Training Director
Ian started sailing with his father at the age of 12, he sailed worldwide for 13 years on a range of commercial ships spending his leave sailing yachts around the UK and Mediterranean.
Ian is course director on multiple courses here at the MTA sharing valuable knowledge, insight and experience with our students.
Ashley Rennie
Operations Director
Ashley has over twenty-five years’ experience in the maritime industry as a superyacht captain and various shore-based roles including running a Caribbean marina. Also has prior experience in the engineering and retail sectors. Passionate and dedicated to providing excellent operational frameworks and customer service.
In his spare time, he is keen sportsman, mountain biker and classic vehicles enthusiast.
David Rawlinson
Operations Director
David joined Maritime Training Academy in 2024, having spent over 20 years on Superyachts working his way up to Captain. He brings first-hand knowledge on Superyacht Operations and Chartering, having the practical experience from all areas of the World.
David’s favourite cruising ground is the South Pacific, where he spent a few years sailing up and down the numerous islands and atolls.
Rudy
Head of Wellbeing
Her favourite things are sticks, chicken and lots of attention!
Rudy takes her role as Head of Wellbeing very seriously and makes sure she gives everyone a cuddle each day she is in the office.
Distance Learning Courses
Education is the best investment you will ever make. It demonstrates a level of commitment to the industry, but more importantly, proves dedication to hard work. With the proven knowledge that employers look for, more opportunities can be explored. Our courses are targeted to specific roles within this industry. And, they provide detailed study in your chosen field, as well as essential practical skills. However, the value of studying as well as the qualification can also open your mind to new possibilities. Ultimately bringing about positive changes to your working life.
Why Choose MTA?
Maritime Training Academy is an international leader in supplying distance-learning marine diplomas.
As part of the Maritime Services group, we offer an unrivalled combination of flexibility, support, expertise and industry affiliations.
Each year we help thousands of students to enhance their knowledge and further their careers.
Flexible
Supportive
While the nature of distance learning is independent study, we recognise the importance of support. Students can contact us at any time during their course for assistance and our team of industry experts are always on hand for advice.
Expertise
We have over 50 industry experts writing, developing and advising on our course material. We truly believe that allowing students to tap into their expertise and knowledge is of the utmost importance to fulfil your dream career.
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