From the President – December 2012

Published on 12 December 2012

My 2 year term as IMCA President finishes at the end of 2012. The role is honorary but includes chairing the IMCA Overall Management Committee (OMC) and Council. OMC is responsible for IMCA’s successful management, creating direction and working with the secretariat to deliver the association’s work programme, whilst Council provides support and guidance to OMC from senior representatives of IMCA’s ICO members. I have enjoyed the role, and have seen firsthand and been impressed by IMCA’s delivery at a number of venues and events. The gestation of some of what we have delivered during my term, for example IMCA Trading Ltd, was started earlier. But like all developments they need nurturing with the aim of creating a structure which will survive and efficiently deliver support to members – in fact, ‘sustainability’.

The year end is a transition. As I step down Massimo Fontolan of Saipem will take over as President and the Vice-President will come from Technip. A task that I did not anticipate, was appointing a new Chief Executive. I am delighted that Chris Charman is now in post. The research required for such an appointment identifies new opportunities which OMC is going to explore, develop and capture in a 5 year plan with Chris. So, in this transition I am personally saying my goodbyes to you and simultaneously welcoming these three key people and wishing them every success.

On behalf of all of you I also want to thank Hugh for his 10 years’ IMCA leadership. The association proudly flies its flag whose logo is recognised and respected as never before. A huge transition has been shaped and a body of guidance published to support members in every aspect of marine construction. Hugh has cheerily and diplomatically led this, fielding members’ views and demands and finding routes which the whole membership from all their diverse backgrounds can support. Much has been done. There is success, direction and momentum for Chris and an opportunity to take IMCA into its next phase.

Again on behalf of all of you, I want to wish Hugh a long and happy retirement.

Sustainability was aptly the theme of this year’s annual seminar – another huge success – just finished in Amsterdam. With the healthy status and above appointments in place I am confident that IMCA can sustain its success, continuing to support the delivery of safe and efficient marine construction through its members.

Andy Woolgar, Subsea 7IMCA President 2012