Bibby Marine appoints new operations director

He will oversee the build and ongoing operation of Bibby WaveMaster 1, the new walk to work Service Operations Vessel that will serve offshore wind farm operators.

Mr Bolton has worked in the electricity industry for over 20 years, working at both wind farms and in senior roles at electricity companies such as RWE and Centrica.

Stephen Blaikie, chief executive officer of Bibby Marine Services, said: “Stephen Bolton is a seasoned professional who will help us to bring our new vessel to market and will work with wind farm operators, ensuring we deliver high quality access and accommodation solutions.”

“He will be involved in the build and the ongoing management of the vessel as well as the strategic development of our business.”

Highly experienced in the offshore wind sector, Mr Bolton have been involved in the construction of the UK’s first offshore wind farm, North Hoyle.

His approach led to a shift-change in Strategic Asset Management, delivering fit for purpose strategies that delivered whole wind farm asset management, as opposed to just wind turbine management.

“Just as design is critical to the vessel’s success in terms of accommodation and access, I also believe that the ability of the vessel owner to deliver a range of services is vital,” explained Mr Bolton.

He added: “The combination of Bibby Line Group’s heritage and the many services it can offer, coupled with the design and build capabilities of Damen, results in a vessel that will be a real game-changer in offshore wind. I am delighted that I am taking a role that is helping to shape the future of offshore wind access.”

Mr Bolton is a Chartered Mechanical Engineer (Leeds) with a Master of Business Administration (Henley). He has also published many thought leadership articles on Offshore Wind Asset management.

By Alice Mason