Profile of our New ICorr STGB Chair
- What did you aspire to be when you were younger?
When I was growing up, I always wanted to run my own business. I actually achieved this pretty early, at 19 I started a mobile wholesale confectionery business inspired by my father, who was a master confectioner. Working alongside him taught me a lot about dedication and craftsmanship. After a couple of years, I sold my business to focus on a career offshore in the corrosion industry. - How did you end up as a corrosion specialist?
I started out as a scaffold labourer and then became a painter blaster with Salamis. During my training as a painter blaster, I had the opportunity to work in the Salamis skills centre, which opened doors to roles in training, technical support and project support. My expertise in painting, coating, blasting and integrity risk management naturally led me to specialise in corrosion and coatings control and ultimately the Technical Authority for Bilfinger UK. I’ve backed this up with advanced qualifications, including NACE Level 2 and ICorr Level 3 certifications. - What was your first job like?
My early professional career was very hands-on. As a painter blaster, I was responsible for preparing and coating surfaces, always making sure to deliver quality work to client specifications. This role gave me a strong foundation in safety, teamwork and technical excellence and I was recognised as a Qualified Painter Blaster on major offshore platforms. Achieving SQAs OPITO, ICATS and Train the painter qualifications. - How did your career progress after that?
After gaining practical experience, I moved into training roles, developing lesson plans and delivering technical courses for painting, blasting and safety. I was promoted from trainee to senior trainer and then advanced to Project Engineer and Technical Authority at Bilfinger. In my current role, I lead QA/QC functions, manage projects and mentor technical teams. I’ve also contributed to digital innovation with the rollout of the Bilfinger UK Coatings App and development of other digital solutions also serve as a technical authority for coatings. - What have you enjoyed most about your career?
I’ve enjoyed the variety of projects I’ve been exposed to from new builds and large barge campaigns to decommissioning, installing sea ladders and working in the alternative energy markets. Each project has brought new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow. - What career advice would you give to a young specialist in your field?
Based on my experience, I’d advise new specialists to get as much hands-on experience as possible, embrace continuous learning and get involved in professional organisations like ICorr. Building strong relationships with colleagues, suppliers and clients is key to success in this industry.
- What’s in store for professionals in your area of expertise?
With the ongoing need for corrosion control and asset integrity, I believe the future is bright for specialists in this field. The industry’s shift towards digital solutions and best practice implementation means there are always opportunities for innovation and leadership. - What have you gained from your membership of professional organisations?
As Chair of the Surface Treatment Governing Board for ICorr UK and Financial Officer for the Aberdeen Branch, I’ve benefited greatly from networking, knowledge sharing, and opportunities to influence industry standards and training. - What’s your favourite food?
My favourite cuisine has to be a full Scottish breakfast with French toast. There’s nothing quite like starting the day with a hearty breakfast – especially when French toast is involved! It’s a real treat and brings back memories of family weekends. - What do you like doing most outside of your professional life?
These days, I spend most of my free time with my wife Diane and our children – Leila, Emilia and Isla. Family time is really important to me. In the past, I used to have a large reef aquarium, which I dedicated a lot of time to maintaining. Looking back, I think that’s where my interest in chemistry may have started! - Tell us a secret about yourself, something that might surprise fellow members (and is suitable for print!)
A few things might surprise people: I once did a skydive from 13,000 feet in Houston Texas which was an incredible experience. Also as mentioned earlier, I started my own business at 19 a mobile wholesale confectionery business which not everyone knows about. Both experiences taught me a lot about taking risks and following my passions.
