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Maximising Offshore Resources: The Role of FPSOs in the Oil & Gas Sector
2023-07-27T13:20:00Z
Culture and Values
Introduction
Since the early 1970s, FPSOs (floating production, storage and offloading vessels) have been integral to the offshore oil and gas industry. Their emergence has revolutionised the production of oil and gas, giving operators a flexible and cost-effective solution. In our conversation with Brunel specialist John, who currently serves as Topside Delivery Manager for an FPSO construction project in Asia, we gained insights into his role and the remarkable evolution of these floating production facilities.
John
Topside Delivery Manager
John grew up in London, UK, but has been living in Singapore for 30 years. “Life here can get hectic sometimes,” he tells us “But I prefer that to being out in the countryside in the UK, which can be a little dull at times.”
Hi, John. You’ve been working in the oil and gas industry for over three decades. How did you get started?
I never had any intention of entering the oil and gas industry. I sort of fell into it. With a degree in mechanical engineering, my initial focus was geared towards pursuing a career in the aerospace sector. Growing up in western London, I was surrounded by numerous aerospace companies associated with the defence industry. However, as fate would have it, by the time I graduated in 1982, the British industrial landscape was facing significant challenges, resulting in the bankruptcy of several establishments. Consequently, I found myself employed by an industrial gas company. It wasn't until 1990 that I embarked on my first venture into the offshore domain, working on my first project in the North Sea.
In 1993 you moved to Singapore. What prompted your move to Southeast Asia?
I was born in Asia, specifically in what is now known as Sabah, a state in Malaysia. And in 1993, I was employed by a British consultancy that maintained an office in Singapore, so it was an opportunity to go back. Initially, my intention was to fulfil a four-month contract. But as time progressed, unforeseen opportunities unfolded, leading me to extend my stay.
And when did you first come across Brunel?
I actually got introduced to Brunel very early on – not as an employer but as a supplier. At the time, I was leading a project for one of Brunel's clients and required the expertise of six piping specialists. Brunel promptly provided me with the skilled professionals I needed. This encounter took place in 2003, marking the beginning of my collaboration with Brunel throughout the years. However, it wasn't until 2021 that I was approached and asked to join Brunel as a specialist myself. I am currently involved in my second project with the company.
Could you tell us more about your role as Topside Delivery Manager and your current project?
I am currently collaborating with one of Brunel's clients, a prominent player in the offshore industry, specifically in the realm of floating, production, storage and offloading (FPSO) units. These vessels, as the name suggests, play a vital role in the production, storage and offloading of oil and gas from offshore fields. The project I am currently involved in focuses on building an FPSO that will ultimately be deployed in Brazil. In my role, I am responsible for ensuring the successful delivery of topside modules and structures for the FPSO. These topside components encompass a range of equipment, systems and facilities above the waterline. As part of my responsibilities, I oversee various aspects, including project management, fabrication, construction, installation, commissioning, safety and stakeholder management. Currently, a significant portion of my time is dedicated to conducting numerous meetings aimed at securing essential contracts with subcontractors. Additionally, in the upcoming weeks, there is the possibility that I will need to travel overseas to meet our engineering subcontractors and potentially visit one of the fabrication yards.
