Swire Oilfield Services, a leading global provider of cargo carrying solutions, modular systems, offshore aviation services and fluid management, has appointed Bob Smith as its new head of operations for the UK.

Mr Smith will oversee all operational activity of the UK bases and continue to build on the company's commitment to process improvement and people development. He will also be responsible for driving growth in the operational function in the UK, which incorporates the company's new sling manufacturing and maintenance service. Last month, Swire Oilfield Services announced it is set to invest more than £185,000 in its sling manufacturing and repair facility in Aberdeen with the capacity to match its current internal demand of 5,000 slings per year.

For the last seven years, Mr Smith has held the position of operations manager at Stoneywood Paper Mill in Aberdeen, Scotland. He also has energy sector experience through offshore work and has a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Electrical Engineering and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Henley Management College.

On his appointment, Mr Smith said: "In recent years, Swire Oilfield Services has grown significantly and there are exciting plans for the future. I will be focused on improving the UK operations to support achieving the company's objectives and I look forward to the challenges ahead.

"It gives me great pride to join a company that has continual focus on growth both externally and internally. I already feel part of the Swire team and it is clear that the company is devoted to its people and recognizes that their development in an essential part of future success."