The chief executive of the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute is moving on after more than four years in the role.

Karla Lacey will conclude her stewardship of the organisation at the end of the month to pursue other career interests.

She will maintain her connection to BUEI by serving as a senior adviser to the annual Youth Climate Summit, which is entering its fifth year.

Will Cox and Ronald Stan, the co-chairmen of BUEI’s board of directors, said in a joint statement: “Karla has guided BUEI since 2021, taking us out of Covid to where we are now.

“One of her many accomplishments has been fostering an energised workplace and developing a solid team to support her as she worked to raise community awareness of the important work that BUEI does and to position BUEI as a key player in the space we occupy.

“We are relevant to so many people for so many reasons now.”

A BUEI spokeswoman said that Ms Lacey had created “a culture of excellence” that led to record fundraising and impactful community engagement efforts.

Programmes that included World Water Day and the Youth Climate Summit helped turn the institute into a more active force.

She added that Ms Lacey strengthened the BUEI’s revenue streams and grew its ability to finance its educational programmes.

Traci Burgess, who joined the BUEI as head of programmes and administration, will take on the role of chief executive on April 1.

She has worked with charities focused on young people and the environment for more than two decades.

The co-chairmen said in the joint statement: “Traci brings deep experience and focus in the non-profit sector of Bermuda and is passionate about BUEI and her work.

“The board of directors is confident that Traci’s expertise and passion for BUEI’s mission will continue to drive future success.”