Royal Navy recently appointed its first female admiral, breaking a century-old glass wall.
Jude Terry, who joined forces in 1997, is now the responsible for more that 40,000 regular sailors and Royal Marines.
This 48-year-old veteran has served nearly 25 years in service all over the world and is now the director of People and Training and the Naval Secretary.
She stated that the number of talented women in the service and their experience means more women will be able to reach higher ranks.
Admiral Terry, from Jersey, is also in charge of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary – who operate the Navy’s crucial support ships – plus civil servants and contractors.
Women have served in the Royal Navy since the Women’s Royal Naval Service – or ‘Wrens’ – in the First World War and have been going to sea since 1990.
The Royal Navy has ‘shattered a century-old glass ceiling’ by appointing Jude Terry, 48, as its first ever female admiral. She joined the force in 1997 and takes the helm as Director of People and Training and Naval Secretary
Jude said the fact that she is a woman is irrelevant to her post and rank – simply that ‘someone has to be first’.
There are currently four female commodores – the next rank down – and 20 female captains.
Admiral Terry said: ‘The world has changed in terms of what people want from life and careers, whatever their gender, and the Navy needs to work to modernise our organisation to support this change – a diverse and inclusive workforce is a better place for all but is also proven to deliver better outcomes’.
First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key said Admiral Terry is ‘a great example of all the amazing women serving today – and a role model for all who serve and those who follow.’
Admiral Terry is from Jersey and also oversees the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, which operates the Navy’s critical support vessels, as well as civil servants, contractors, and other staff. Pictured: Admiral Terry with Rear Admiral Philip Hally in the Great Cabin in HMS Victory at Portsmouth
Admiral Terry, who joined the Royal Navy as a survey boat HMS Scott in 1997, has spent time aboard HMS Scott and two times with HMS Ocean the helicopter carrier. The latter was the Commander Logistics in operations in the Baltic, Gulf and Baltic.
Admiral Terry helped to plan the UK’s withdrawal from Afghanistan. It involved decreasing the number of troops in Afghanistan by 9,500 and reducing it to about 5,000.
Admiral Terry stated, “It’s an honor and privilege to accept the position of Director People and Training and Navy Secretary today.”
“Our ability to execute on overseas and UK operations is dependent upon the well-being of our people and families. My team is my greatest asset. I am looking forward to supporting them with modern methods, helping to make us the best possible, as well as building upon the legacy of my predecessor.
Admiral Terry joined the Royal Navy in 1997. He served on HMS Scott as a survey ship, while HMS Scott was a helicopter carrier. HMS Ocean saw him serve two terms with Commander Logistics in operations in the Baltic, Gulf, and Baltic.
“Last week Vice Admiral Hine, Second Sea Lord, said that he wanted to see the Service leave in a better condition than it was when he left.
“I want to take what we have done and build upon it to keep doing that.”
Admiral Terry was a 24 year old Navy graduate. He initially planned to serve for eight years.
A female warship commander was not possible at that time. It was difficult to find role models and even less seagoing experience.
Terry stated that 8 years can turn into 25 if you love your work. It has been a great experience to work with so many amazing people, and have had the support of my family and close friends. No two days are ever alike which is exactly what I love about this job.