Subsea services firm Sulmara has opened a new office in Bristol as part of its strategy to enhance technical leadership and accelerate innovation in data-driven offshore solutions.
The new site will house a specialist team focused on enterprise data infrastructure, software development, and analytics, with an emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) applications. Sulmara said the team’s work is aimed at reducing offshore personnel, improving survey accuracy, and shortening project delivery times.
“This is more than just a new office – it’s a highly experienced team ready to deliver from day one,” said Richard Goodwin, who has been appointed Chief Information Officer and will lead global technical development and operations from the new base. “With AI and machine learning, we see a huge opportunity to transform underwater exploration – making it safer, faster, and more precise than ever before.”
Goodwin brings more than 25 years of experience to the role, including senior global positions at Capgemini.
Sulmara Chief Executive Kevin McBarron said the new technical hub strengthens the company’s offering to clients. “Having this team in place adds further depth to the expertise we offer our clients, and we’re genuinely looking forward to working together,” he said.
The Bristol team will focus on developing digital tools for unexploded ordnance (UXO) identification, seafloor target picking, and boulder detection, supporting the broader adoption of remote technologies in subsea operations.
Sulmara said the expansion reflects its ongoing commitment to innovation, data-led services, and improving safety and efficiency in offshore exploration and development.
