Alison Whelan is a senior officer in the Royal Navy, holding the rank of Rear Admiral. Joining the service in 1988, her career has been characterised by a steady progression through the ranks. She has commanded several naval vessels, including the frigate HMS Monmouth, becoming one of the first women to command a front-line warship in the Royal Navy. Promoted to Rear Admiral, she has held positions of increasing responsibility, such as Commander of Portsmouth Naval Base. In 2023, she was appointed Second Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Personnel, becoming the first woman to hold this historic and prestigious position, responsible for the management of all naval personnel. For her merit and service, in 2020 she was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).