Ecosse Subsea Systems (ESS) has strengthened its management team with the appointment of Iain Middleton to the newly created role of commercial manager.
The subsea and engineering technology company said the move would allow commercial director Keith McDermott to continue to pursue new business opportunities for Ecosse in the Asian and US renewables and oil and gas sectors, and to focus on strategic developments.
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In a 30-year career within the oil and gas sector, mainly with major operator Shell, Mr Middleton was responsible for the commercial strategy, planning and execution of a number of important onshore and offshore brownfield, decommissioning and greenfield projects. He was latterly supply chain manager for Shell projects in the UK, Ireland and Netherlands, with responsibility for an annual budget in excess of £2.5 billion.
ESS managing director, Mike Wilson, said the appointment was a step-change for the business which was a precursor to a sustained period of growth fuelled by expansion in to new markets.
He said: “Iain’s supply chain experience and track record of working at a senior level for a corporate major will introduce new skills and greatly improve our procedures and ways of doing business. His appointment is one of a number that are in the pipeline as ESS moves towards a new phase of organic growth and product development.
“We are experiencing a strong upsurge in demand for our services and Iain will ensure we continue to improve on the high standards of delivery that is an ESS hallmark.”
Iain Middleton added: “ESS is a positive example of a business which has bridged the gap between the traditional oil and gas sector and the fast-emerging renewables market. I am looking forward to being part of the team which drives the business on to the next phase of growth and further success.”
The Banchory-based business has patented a range of tools which are used in seabed clearance, route preparation, trenching, backfill, pipelay removal and cable laying operations and which are adaptable for hydrocarbon, power generation and renewables projects.
Turnover is expected to grow in the current year to between £23-£25 million with profits increasing to around £5 million and staff numbers exceeding 50 people.
