What does a day in the life of Principal DP Consultant look like?

Every day is different but typical responsibilities include supporting clients, undertaking analysis of DP systems, vessel visits, preparing proposals, project management and supporting my team and liaising with the global GM DP network.

What are the biggest challenges vessel owners face when managing DP trials today?

It can be very challenging for vessel owners and operators to find suitable time and locations to conduct annual DP trials due to demands of vessel operations, charter contracts and port operations. Working with vessel owners and operators in advance of trials with planning and expectation is one way we help our clients minimise the risk and challenges that they face.

Why is digitalisation becoming increasingly important in DP assurance?

We see some vessel charterers now looking for data to support some of the tests conducted as part of DP trials. The challenge is there is no standardisation within industry on where (or if) such data should be presented. This puts vessel owners, and operators, in a difficult position as what they have done previously may no longer be accepted as part of the charterer’s DP assurance process and what may be acceptable to one, is not acceptable to another.

Global Maritime has its own DP Trials App, which enables the efficient and consistent capture of data and evidence in support of trials results, reducing administrative burden and saving valuable time throughout the trials process. Combined with our experience across a variety of sectors and our deep understanding of DP assurance requirements, the platform supports clients in delivering a streamlined and effective assurance process.

What’s something exciting you’re currently working on?

I am currently working on a DP2 vessel which is to be utilised as a spaceport for space rocket landings. This is a very different application to what we are normally involved with and an emerging technology with Class Societies recently issuing Rules for the Classification of Offshore Spaceports.

If you could change one thing about our industry, what would it be, and how does Global Maritime play a role in shaping that future?

There are a lot of organisations and companies doing a lot of good to drive forward technology and safety in DP operations at the moment. However, we have a diverse industry and some areas face commercial pressures resulting in a different risk appetite in different sectors and locations. We all need to have the same approach and attitude to safe DP operations. Within GM we are aligned on this ethos and we keep this at the forefront of all our work and are actively involved in industry to help push and drive standards.

What inspired you to pursue a career within our industry?

I got an opportunity from a previous manager to move into the DP industry and it very much was a case of once I took that initial step I’ve never looked back and actually wondered why I hadn’t done this earlier. Things are always moving, changing and the work keeps me engaged.

And finally, what’s your favourite thing about being part of the Global Maritime team, beyond the day-to-day work?

We are all aligned with our belief of doing things properly and correctly. We do not take shortcuts and we do not compromise our integrity. It is our name that is going on reports at the end of the day and thus our reputation, so we all work together to ensure we deliver high quality, high accuracy, and in accordance with industry regulations, guidance and best practice.

Find out more about our Marine Services capabilities: Marine Services – Global Maritime