THE NEW Chief Executive of trade association Offshore Energies UK is to be David Whitehouse.
He starts on January 1 and succeeds Deirdre Michie, who is stepping down after almost eight years in the role.
Mr Whitehouse previously led operator CNR International, where he spent two decades as managing director and vice president of development operations.
He is currently studying at Aberdeen University for a masters in renewable engineering – an area of key growth and interest for OEUK and its members.
David Whitehouse said of his new role: “It’s a great honour and I can’t wait to get started. Offshore Energies UK is our industry’s champion and I will be proud to be lead it into a very exciting future.
“The UK has a world-class energy sector that is changing as we work towards a fair energy transition whilst ensuring the UK has the energy security it needs to drive growth and productivity.
“I’d also like to pay tribute to Deirdre Michie, who is deeply respected across our industry. Her leadership has been fantastic to behold and I know she will be missed by the OEUK team.
“She has passed on invaluable advice about the challenge ahead, which I am excited to meet with the excellent OEUK team and its members. This is also a time of enormous opportunity for our industry, which I’m sure we can all shape and take together.”
OEUK board co-chair Arne Gurtner said the new CEO has a wealth of experience and a passion for nurturing the industry and its people.
“He brings inspirational leadership skills and deep industry expertise that will connect with government, our stakeholders and our growing membership across all parts of the offshore energy landscape. David will provide strong and influential direction as OEUK continues to safeguard UK energy security and power up the energy transition.”
Sian Lloyd Rees, OEUK board co-chair, added: “On behalf of the board and OEUK members, I’d like to thank Deirdre for her years of dynamic service to this industry.
“She has led OEUK with enormous skill and built a first-class team. Deirdre has become the face of our industry in the UK and she leaves a rich legacy.
She has helped OEUK build its reputation as the leading representative body for our industry, which is founded on its world-class membership services and resources together with world-class information, reports and events. We wish her all the very best for the future.”
