Commander Layamon Bakewell, DSD, RNZN
We were very fortunate to have Cindy's brother, Commander Layamon Bakewell as our Guest Speaker.
Layamon shared his experiences and the lessons in leadership that he has learned from his time in the Navy.
Layamon was Commander of the Inshore Patrol Vessel HMNZS Rotoiti from June 2011 to August 2012. He was awarded the New Zealand Distinguished Service Decoration (DSD) for the role that the ROTIOTI played in the evacuation of personnel off the MV RENA in 2011. It was really interesting to hear first hand the dilemma, risks and decisions that had to be made following the grounding of the Rena. The leadership lessons that Layamon shared with us included:
the boss doesn't necessarily know all the answers but you need to trust your team;
no matter how bad it is, always remain calm;
there is not substitute for 100% preparation and preparation is the leaders responsibility.
Commander Layamon was thanked by Wayne Brewer. Layamon also organised for members of IYFR to have a Ship Inspection of HMNZS Canterbury at the Devonport Naval Base on 17th April.