A maritime finance expert who has worked for leading companies in the industry has been hired by an innovative company that uses ultrasound technology to improve the energy efficiency of ships.
Coventry-based Sonihull has appointed David Barber as its new chief financial officer as it aims to green the maritime sector with innovative anti-fouling solutions.
Prior to joining Sonihull, David spent more than five years at Rolls-Royce, where he rose to senior vice president of finance for the marine propulsion and engines division.
He then worked for Norwegian maritime and defense technology company Kongsberg, which acquired Rolls-Royce’s marine business, before moving to aerospace giant RLC at the height of the pandemic.
David decided to join Sonihull after being impressed by Sonihull’s green credentials and how it strives to find positive solutions to the climate crisis.
Darren Rowlands (left) and David Barber
He said: “Sonihull is a very ambitious company that is making a big difference to the maritime industry’s carbon footprint and I wanted to be a part of it.
“The company’s products have the potential to transform this sector in ways that not only benefit the environment, but also contribute to customer bottom lines.
“I’ve always been interested in climate change and finding practical solutions to it. I have a degree in biology, so Sonihull ticked a lot of boxes for me. He checked it.
“The team at Sonihull has been incredibly welcoming and I’m really looking forward to contributing to the company’s reputation around the world.”
Sonihull, which won the King’s Award for Enterprise in April, uses a range of products that emit ultrasonic waves throughout the hull to prevent marine wildlife such as algae, molluscs and weeds from attaching to surfaces. are doing.
This takes extra weight off the ship and maintains its hydrodynamic shape, reducing fuel consumption and increasing efficiency.
This also means there is no need to use toxic biocidal coatings, which are traditionally used to deter marine life from binding.
Sonihal’s success has led to a 40% year-on-year increase in sales and international expansion with new offices in Abu Dhabi, Boston and Vancouver in the US.
Darren Rowland, CEO of Sonihull, added: “David joins Sonihull at a very exciting time.
“As industry costs rise and climate change and environmental pollution become more of a focus than ever, our products are gaining industry attention on a global scale.
“David brings valuable industry experience and we are delighted to have him on board as we look to further our growth.”
Source: Sonihal
