Reborn global subsea controls company J+S Subsea has hired a managing director and also unveiled former Sparrows Group boss Doug Sedge as a non-executive director.
The newly independent Aberdeen firm’s first MD is Phil Reid, who has worked in the oil and gas sector for more than 25 years.
About 10 years ago he was an account manager for the original J+S Subsea, before technology group Cohort integrated the firm into its engineering and software design subsidiary Systems Engineering and Assessment (SEA).
Over the past decade Mr Reid has looked after capital projects from start to finish as lead subsea controls and umbilical engineer for Spirit Energy, while also managing the operator’s subsea assets.
Earlier in his career he spent 14 years in a variety of engineering and manufacturing roles in the subsea systems arm of Norwegian group Kvaerner, leading on complex global projects.
Mr Reid said: “I’m very excited to rejoin the team at J+S Subsea. We are living through exceptional times which have led to many challenges for the energy sector, but equally there are opportunities.
“As it progresses towards its net-zero carbon ambitions and looks for solutions, companies such as J+S Subsea – part of the circular economy – will be able to shine as this is exactly what it delivers.
“With my previous experience at the firm I’m in a prime position to drive the business forward in this area.
“My immediate objectives involve continuing to support our existing clients in the oil and gas industry, and also to grow the business in the renewables and marine sectors in the North Sea and international markets.”
Mr Sedge is no stranger to the north-east oil and gas industry, having been involved for 45 years.
He was regional vice-president for Europe, West Africa and the former Soviet Union at energy services firm Weatherford from 1999-2005, chief executive at RGB Group from 2005-2008 and CEO at Sparrows Group for five years until 2014. He also holds three non-executive roles with smaller energy sector firms.
J+S Subsea executive chairman Matt Blair said: “We are very excited to welcome Phil back into the fold.
“He brings invaluable global subsea industry experience from both contractor and oil company perspectives, and I am looking forward to working with him and supporting him in his role as managing director.
“I am also very pleased to announce that Doug Sedge has accepted a position as non-executive director on the board.
“Doug is a very well-known and respected figure in the oilfield business community. We have worked together many times over the years, and I know he will provide impartial perspective and guidance to Phil, myself and the team.”
Dyce-based J+S Subsea designs, engineers and manufactures new and recertified equipment for the energy sectors, as well as providing operational support where required.
The company was relaunched last month following a management buyout of the subsea engineering division of SEA.
Bosses also revealed plans to move the firm to a new facility in the Aberdeen area in order to support current operational requirements, as well as giving it options for future expansion and new opportunities.