Martin Dronfield - Group Business Development Director for Fendercare Marine

• Describe the company in fewer than 10 words

An East of England headquartered Global Marine & Energy Service Partner

• What is the most exciting contract that your company is currently focused on?

Fendercare has spent the last 6 months working on (and is close to finalising) a contract to work with one of the worlds largest Oil Majors to provide a 5 year, complete marine & vessel management solution to a number of its FPSOs. This contract incorporates the provision of multiple AHTs, diving services & diving equipment and several other associated solutions. At circa $300m over the life of the contract it’s a hugely exciting opportunity that as a company step changes our future.

• What is your company’s biggest notable success story?

I believe the company itself, is its own biggest success story. From very humble beginnings in 1988 the company has risen to become one of the worlds leading providers of marine and energy related product and service solutions. With a turnover of £110 million in 2011, and a target of growth to circa £150 million in 2012. We are hugely proud of what we have done. It is worth noting that this phenomenal achievement would not have happened without a huge amount of dedication from a great many staff from the East of England and the continued support from our clients.

• What is the burning issue of today in your industry?

As Fendercare Marine & its subsidiary companies work across a number of industries there is no single or simple answer to this question. However one common thread that seems to be present in all areas of our business is the fact that it is becoming increasingly difficult to find highly skilled and experienced staff across all levels, we often say in Fendercare that opportunity is not our problem, delivering it is our problem. However I would also add that the rapidly changing global economic footprint presents an ever increasing challenge, having our goods and services in the right geographic location at the right time and keeping track of our clients rapidly changing needs also come close to the top our of list of challenges.

• How did you get into the industry?

Kicking and screaming!!!!

No seriously, on leaving school (I lived in Lowestoft) I had a choice of becoming a fisherman or going into the Oil & Gas industry – I choose the Oil & Gas Industry and have never looked back.

• What was your first job?

I served a 4 year apprenticeship as a Thermal Insulation Engineer of which the first 3 years where spent at SLP in Lowestoft. The last year was spent working at the Bacton Gas Terminal.

• Other than what you are doing, what would be your dream job?

Chairman of a Football Club – Either Manchester United or Norwich would do!

• Who is your biggest inspiration?

In the past, (and he will be surprised if he reads this) John Pearson who is one of the directors of the AMEC Energy Business. He told me many wise things that took far too long to sink into my thick head. Today, my two sons inspire me with their passion, dedication and drive to be the best they can possible be. It never ceases to amaze me – they get it of course from their mum!!!

• What is the highlight of your career to date?

There is no single thing, but presenting in the Houses of Parliament in 2008 stands out, as does presenting a technical paper to over 500 senior Shell Technical Authorities in The Hague in 2004. However, being part of the senior team that set up AJS and won the Shell Southern North Sea ISC in 2003 probably was one of my proudest moments.

• Do you have one outstanding ambition?

For my eldest son to represent England at Karate, and my youngest son to play for Norwich or Manchester United.

• What would be your dream car?

Nothing too grand but a top of the range Land Rover Discovery 4 would do.

• How do you relax in your spare time?

Apart from my second job as dad’s taxi service and supporting the boys in their numerous activities, I do still find a little time for fishing and I take just a small interest in a small North East of England football club called Manchester United!

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