Marine Cyber Analyst joins Astaara

Friday 19 February 2021

Nick Parkes has joined marine cyber risk management and insurance company, Astaara.

The Old Elizabethan worked previously in engineering roles for Condor Ferries and C8 Mechanical & Electrical.

"I hope that my knowledge and understanding of ships systems, onboard equipment, communication and design will add to Astaara’s collective expertise," said Mr Parkes. "I enjoy problem solving and am always keen to learn about new technology.

"This area of the industry will be expanding and becoming more prevalent over the next few years making it an exciting time to join Astaara. I am looking forward to learning about some of the new technologies that the marine industry is starting to use."

Mr Parkes’ appointment follows the recent recruitment of a former naval captain, who has become the company’s deputy cyber officer, and a senior business development director.

Philip Ponsford worked at the forefront of the development of information security strategy for the Royal Navy and wrote the service’s first cyber security guidance.

‘I will bring an experienced mariner’s eye to every aspect of Astaara’s work, particularly in how to operationalise their approach to cyber," said Mr Ponsford.

"My experience at NMIC gives me an unparalleled understanding of how industry and government should most effectively interact in all spheres of maritime security."

Senior business development director Samira Hmam has spent 14 years working in underwriting.

"My past experience in the marine insurance industry has taught me lessons and skills I will of course apply to my new role with Astaara," said Miss Hmam.

Astaara’s CEO Robert Dorey added: "These latest appointments are very important to Astaara and we are delighted to be expanding the team once again with such experienced people. Our aim is to provide the very best advice to our clients and with Philip, Nick and Samira on board we are in an even better position to do this."

Pictured top: Nick Parkes has joined marine cyber risk management and insurance company, Astaara, as a Marine Cyber Analyst.