Osbit appoints new Managing Director after more than 15 years of founder leadership
North East engineering and technology company, Osbit ltd, has appointed Nigel Ward as Managing Director following the decision by Robbie Blakeman and Brendon Hayward to step down after more than 15 years leading the business.
Headquartered in Northumberland, Osbit designs and delivers specialist offshore equipment and technology for global energy markets. Part of Venterra Group since 2021, Osbit is also a key member of the North East’s established offshore engineering and manufacturing supply chain.
Robbie and Brendon have helped shape Osbit into a recognised North East engineering success story, with a team of over 200 people across its Riding Mill and Blyth sites, long-standing customer relationships and a track record in complex offshore projects. Its people-focused culture was recognised last month when Osbit was named People and Work Business of the Year at the North East Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.
Having grown the business and established its role within Venterra Group, Robbie and Brendon believe the time is right to hand over to Nigel as Osbit looks to its next stage. The transition has been managed to provide continuity for employees, clients and partners.
Nigel brings more than 25 years’ experience across renewables, oil and gas, offshore construction and marine operations. His background spans survey, trenching and advanced subsea technologies, with a track record of supporting clients, introducing new technology and growing specialist offshore service businesses.
In his new role, Nigel will work with Osbit’s leadership team, employees and supply chain partners to continue developing equipment used to install, protect and maintain critical offshore infrastructure. Looking ahead, Nigel will also oversee the expansion of its Build and Test Site at the Port of Blyth, supporting high-value local jobs and strengthening the region’s role in offshore energy and specialist manufacturing.
Robbie Blakeman and Brendon Hayward said: “Leading Osbit has been an enormous privilege, and we are very proud of what the team has built together.
“Osbit has always been defined by its amazing people and culture, its focus on safety, and its ability to solve complex offshore challenges for clients. We have achieved what we have because of the people, as well as our clients. We would like to thank everyone who has been part of the journey, and we wish Nigel and the team every success.”
Nigel Ward, Managing Director of Osbit, said: “I have known and respected Osbit since its early days, first as a customer, then through joint projects and more recently through my roles at Venterra.
“The strength of the team, the quality of the engineering and the culture Robbie and Brendon have built have always stood out. I am looking forward to working closely with the team and our clients as we build on those foundations.”
Ed Daniels, CEO of Venterra Group, said: “I would like to thank Robbie and Brendon for everything they have done for Osbit and for Venterra. Their leadership has helped shape Osbit into the world-class engineering business it is today, and Nigel’s appointment gives the team a strong platform for its next stage.
“Nigel knows Osbit well and brings significant offshore sector experience, commercial understanding and a strong appreciation of the team. We are committed to supporting the business as it continues to grow, invest and deliver specialist technology from the North East to clients around the world.”