The Global Marine Group (GMG), a market leader in offshore engineering services to the telecommunications, renewables and oil & gas industries, announced today the appointment of Simon Hibberd as Managing Director of its joint venture S. B. Submarine Systems (SBSS), China’s leading provider of subsea cable installation and maintenance services.
Mr. Hibberd, who began his role on 4th May 2018, brings vast industry experience having worked for Global Marine since 1988. Mr. Hibberd initially worked on board Global Marine’s cable ships, rising to the rank of Commander where he completed the installation of landmark fibre optic and power cable projects, including: Brazilian Festoon, PC1, TAT14, EAC and Estlink. In 2007, he moved ashore and has subsequently held a number of senior posts at the Company’s UK head office including Director Fleet & Operational Support then Director, Global Technical Sales, and most recently focusing on business development opportunities in Asia.
“Simon’s operational knowledge, combined with managerial and business development experience gained through his career within the Global Marine Group, makes him a great fit for this key role,” said Ian Douglas, Chief Executive Officer of Global Marine Group. “Simon will lead an organisation of more than 150 employees that achieved sales of nearly US $50M in 2017. His intrinsic understanding of offshore cable work and aptitude for delivering complex subsea projects are all essential qualities that should help us continue to grow SBSS’ position in the market.”
Mr. Douglas added, “SBSS has evolved tremendously since its formation in 1995 and continues to adapt to the changing market landscape. Today the offshore renewables market in China presents a significant growth opportunity, with 25 projects currently under construction or in pre-construction. With Simon at the helm of SBSS, we believe they are well placed to support this dynamic and growing industry.”