Jo Talbot is the Commercial Director at the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), where she leads the organisation’s commercial strategy in support of its vital mission: preventing drowning and improving water safety across the UK and Ireland.

With an extensive background in water safety and commercial leadership, Jo is responsible for driving sustainable income growth, developing strategic partnerships, and ensuring that RLSS UK’s products, services, and training programmes deliver meaningful value to both stakeholders and communities. Her approach is centred on balancing commercial success with social impact, enabling the charity to reinvest in lifesaving education, training, and awareness campaigns.

Jo is widely recognised for her collaborative and pragmatic leadership style, combining strategic vision with strong operational delivery. She works closely with internal teams, external partners, and industry stakeholders to identify new opportunities, innovate service offerings, and build long-term relationships that advance RLSS UK’s charitable objectives.

A key passion for Jo is providing free, high-quality guidance to the sector. Having previously worked as a swimming pool operator, she understands first-hand the critical role clear, practical guidance plays in keeping people safe. Through partnership working with organisations including CIMSPA, ukactive, and Swim England, Jo has helped to develop and publish essential guidance on areas such as technology, non-lifeguarded pools, and other emerging operational challenges.

Jo is deeply committed to supporting the leisure sector and all operators of swimming pools, beaches, and open water environments. Through education, innovation, and collaboration, she champions safe, inclusive access to water, helping operators create environments where people can enjoy water confidently and responsibly, regardless of setting.