George Morrison who was MD of Aquaterra before Patrick Phelan was appointed

A new managing director was appointed at Norwich-based offshore engineering specialist Aquaterra Energy today as it targets further expansion.

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Patrick Phelan took up his new post at the offshore drilling company, as co-founder and outgoing managing director George Morrison stepped into a technical and commercial support role after six years at the helm.

Mr Phelan was managing director at subsea power cable designer and manufacturer JDR Cable Systems Limited from 1999 to 2011.

He grew JDR from a small business to a global supplier to major oil companies worldwide. JDR also became a leading supplier of power cables to the offshore wind sector, including to projects such as Greater Gabbard and London Array.

Mark Boyd, chairman of Aquaterra said: “This appointment is a key component of Aquaterra’s strategic development plan. Patrick’s market sector knowledge and clear leadership capability will add to the strength of the existing senior management team, at this very important stage of the company’s growth. With new offices in Kuala Lumpur, Aberdeen and Cambridge, the company is already poised for further expansion in line with customer demand.”

Mr Phelan said: “I am delighted to join the senior management team at this exciting time in the company’s development. Aquaterra has earned a reputation for technical excellence, innovation and outstanding customer service, and I look forward to building on those strengths to lead the company through the next stage of its ambitious development plan.”

Mr Morrison said: “I am very pleased that we have been able to attract someone of Patrick’s calibre and experience and I look forward to supporting him in the continued development of our growing business.”

Mr Phelan has 30 years’ experience in offshore oil, gas and renewable energy industries, and has been a managing director for the last 20 years. He has a degree in mechanical engineering from University College London, an MBA from Westminster University, and was named Cambridge Businessman of the Year in 2009.

Mr Morrison - who has 18 years in the offshore engineering sector - founded Aquaterra Energy with Mr Boyd in 2005, and led the rapid growth of the company.