The UK SOSREP position has become the international benchmark for response to maritime and offshore emergencies, due both to its separation of the process from political interference and the exemplary manner in which Robin Middleton has performed as first in the role.  Where there is a threat to the safety of people, property or the UK marine environment, ultimate command and control of any salvage operation is exercised autonomously by the SOSREP on behalf of Government.

The role is demanding as well as powerful. During an emergency, SOSREP may be on duty 24 hours per day, will have to take unpleasant decisions, cope with conflicting interests and deal with probing media questions. Potentially suitable candidates are already earning in the salary range originally offered and proved reluctant to take on the additional responsibility and stress without additional remuneration. The salary package has now been improved to ‘around £70,000’.

Candidates must have experience of incident management, the ability to take difficult decisions, project team leadership and crisis communication skills.  The successful candidate will be expected to develop and motivate the SOSREP team, and build readiness to respond within the MCA infrastructure.  Decisiveness must be matched by an ability to listen to advice and gain consensus from interests as diverse as ship owners, the salvage industry, environmentalists and harbour authorities. Maritime experience would be an advantage but is not essential, a background in emergency planning, oilfield accidents, commercial diving or mining would all be welcome according to the advertisement.

Robin Middleton is now scheduled to retire at the end of September. Although he will be a hard act to follow, his legacy to his successor is a SOSREP position respected and admired both at home and around the world. For further information about the job, visit www.kmcinternational.com, reference number 1242.