What do you do at NASH Maritime?
I help ensure safety of navigation in nearshore and offshore environments.
As a widely experienced master mariner and marine pilot, my specialism is in applied vessel manoeuvring ship simulation and port operations. This background and experience contributes intuitive skills when undertaking navigational risk assessments whether that’s for a proposed maritime infrastructure development project or ensuring compliance with the Port Marine Safety Code.
As a principal consultant at NASH Maritime, I help clients meet their objectives whilst ensuring safe marine operations.
What drew you to working in this area?
Fascinated by the idea that ships are the largest moveable manmade objects in the world, I’ve spent most of my career in shipping and port environments. I started my mariner career navigating the globe and spent a further 13 years at sea, including time in command. I followed this with 5 years operating a fleet of mega yachts for a middle eastern head of state.
The first and last few miles of most voyages tend to be the most interesting so I decided to specialise in piloting vessels in complex port environments.
Being based in Hampshire, it was natural to join ABP Southampton’s pilotage operation which gave me the opportunity to handle the world’s biggest tankers, cruise ships and container vessels.
I’ve also taught ship handling and bridge resource management at Solent University using modern bridge simulators and manned ship models, as well as undertaken many navigation audits accident and incident investigations.
Working at NASH Maritime, I have the opportunity to share and apply my knowledge and experience with clients and colleagues.
What kind of studies are you currently involved in?
I’m involved in a variety of client projects across the maritime sector, some of which is currently confidential. This ranges from navigational risk assessments for marine infrastructure projects in river and estuary environments to offshore windfarms in UK waters, as well as port operations overseas. I also undertake port management and Designated Person roles for ports around the UK.
Current work examples:
Pre-works development consent for berth operators on the River Thames.
Supporting the location and design of offshore windfarm footprint to minimise impact on vessel routes
Navigational risk assessment for proposed marine services in port authority jurisdiction
What’s the favourite thing about the work you do?
Variety has been important to me throughout my life and here at NASH Maritime we work on a huge variety of projects, ranging from new berths for inshore marine operators to the largest offshore windfarms in UK waters and port developments overseas.
This variety also means I get to travel with work and continue to experience the different ways ports are managed. Since working at NASH Maritime I’ve spent time in the Caribbean, the Middle East as well as ports around the UK and Ireland.
I also enjoy working with the different people here at NASH Maritime, each bringing unique perspectives and specialisms.
How does the work you do support NASH Maritime’s vision of a safe and sustainable marine environment?
Navigational Risk Assessment is a recognised means to identify, understand, and manage risks.
For the projects I’m involved in, my role is identify and define risk then work with the team to consider the most appropriate ways to mitigate it to ensure that marine operations are as safe as possible.
Drawing from recognised best practice, my knowledge and experience, we can identify ways we might do this, which might include revising current procedures, improving navigation aids, implementing training or using different equipment.
What do you like best about working here?
I like the variety of the work, the professionalism of the people who work here and the organisation’s culture of trust and flexibility.
What phrase or word sums up NASH Maritime for you?
Committed people working together.