 In November 2005 he assumed command of HM Naval Base Portsmouth and in that capacity was honoured for his "inspirational leadership" during the Government's savings review of Naval Bases in 2007.He was also appointed Chief Naval Logistics Officer and Aide-de-Camp to Her Majesty The Queen.In November 2008 he was appointed Director of Service Personnel Policy (Pay and Allowances) at the Ministry of Defence and, in April 2010, he was promoted to rear admiral and appointed Naval Secretary.