ITF names new Chairman

Industry Technology Facilitator (ITF), the organisation driving oil and gas technology development and collaboration, has appointed John Wishart as its new chairman with effect from 1st August, 2014.

Wishart is group director for Lloyd’s Register Energy and will take on the additional responsibility of chairmanship of ITF in a non-executive capacity. He will lead the board of directors and will provide guidance on the strategic direction of ITF.

A not-for-profit organisation, focused on the commercial needs of its members, ITF has facilitated the launch of more than 200 projects from early stage concepts through to field trials and commercialisation.

Operating across the world, ITF works with its members, the technology development community and government bodies to tackle specific regional issues, as well as defining areas of technology need from a global perspective and identifying opportunities for the transfer of knowledge.

John Wishart said: “I am honoured to be joining the board of ITF at such a critical time for the energy industry. How the sector creates new technologies and innovations is key to global economic development. I look forward to ensuring that ITF continues to play a fundamental role in helping to advance the implementation of new technologies within the energy sector.”

Wishart joined Lloyd’s Register Group in 2012, to lead the transformation of its energy division and has over 30 years’ experience in contracting, consulting and operator sectors. A qualified chartered engineer, Wishart has broad international expertise in the upstream and downstream areas of the oil and gas industry.

Dr Patrick O’Brien, CEO of ITF, added: “John’s wealth of knowledge will ensure that we continue to develop ITF as the global choice for facilitating collaborative technology innovation and deployment in oil and gas and related energy industries. I am certain that John’s strong industry contacts and experience in developing diverse business portfolios with a range of stakeholders including government, national and international oil and service companies, will enable ITF to move forward and develop new relationships.”

Wishart will replace Max Rowe, managing director of Selkie Solutions, who is stepping down after being ITF’s chairman for the last seven years.

Dr O’Brien added: “ITF has significantly grown and developed thanks to the strong contribution and personal commitment from Max and we appreciate all that he has achieved during his tenure as chairman.”