'Humbled' ops manager who prepared HMNB Portsmouth for HMS Prince of Wales made MBE for services to Royal Navy

A ‘humbled’ operations manager who set the groundwork for the Royal Navy aircraft carriers in Portsmouth has been made an MBE.

Stuart Laidler, who works for Serco Maritime, became a Member of the Order of the British Empire in King Charles III’s birthday honours list. He was honoured in recognition of a 46-year career supporting Royal Navy operations in Portsmouth.

Among his notable achievements was his role in preparing HMNB Portsmouth for4 the arrival of the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers, HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Queen Elizabeth. Despite formally retiring in early 25, Mr Laidler returned in a temporary capacity to continue supporting his colleagues and Serco’s industry partners. His nomination was supported by the Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral Paul Beattie.

“I am incredibly humbled to receive this award,” Mr Laidler said. “While my name is on the list, it reflects the hard work, professionalism and dedication of the entire team. It has been a privilege to support the Royal Navy and work alongside so many outstanding people throughout my career.”

Serco said Mr Laidler is a ‘highly respected’ figure across the defence and maritime industry for playing a key role in delivering critical marine services that underpin Royal Navy operational readiness. He has led a team of 120 afloat personnel and overseen more than 30 vessels and barges, helping deliver around 4,000 operational movements and support tasks each year. This vital work ensured the warships deployed safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

Mr Laidler’s contributions include supporting Operation Granby - military operations in the 1991 Gulf War - and enabling the Carrier Strike Group operations of today. He helped oversee the procurement integration of a bespoke tug boats required to support the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers, and ensure all associated harbour operations were safe.

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Drawing on his extensive knowledge of HMNB Portsmouth, he led preparations and training programmes for marine crews and Royal Navy pilots. This included simulator-based exercises that enabled the safe movement and operation of the carriers within one of the UK's busiest naval ports. Since joining the industry in 1979, he has supported the introduction of 34 new vessels into service and championed workforce development programmes to ensure crews could safely operate evolving technologies.

To address critical maritime skills shortages, he has personally mentored 26 apprentices on their journey to becoming Masters and led the creation of Serco's first Able Seafarer (Deck) Apprenticeship. More than 90 per cent of apprentices have progressed into full-time employment since it launched 14 years ago.

Mr Laidler has also worked extensively with Maritime UK, Maritime UK Solent and the Workboat Association to promote maritime careers and skills development across the sector. His commitment to social mobility has included creating work experience opportunities for local students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with additional needs. He has supported schools through careers events, mock interviews and afloat experiences, while his work with the White Ensign Association has helped service leavers transition into civilian employment.

Serco’s strategic defence director Salli Shapcott said: “I’ve had the privilege of seeing first-hand the difference Stuart has made over decades both to critical Navy operations and, more importantly, to people. His commitment to the Royal Navy has been unwavering and the way he has supported, mentored, and opened doors for others really stands out. He has changed lives, as well as supported mission success, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of an MBE.”