Astaara, a newly launched insurer focusing on cyber threats in the maritime industry, has appointed Nick Parkes as a marine cyber analyst.
Parkes previously worked in engineering roles for both a commercial ferry company and a mechanical and electrical contractor.
This announcement follows the recent appointments 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.
Parks commented: “I hope that my knowledge and understanding of ships’ systems, including onboard equipment, communication and design, will add to Astaara’s collective expertise. 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.”
Ponsford said: “I will bring an experienced mariner’s eye to every aspect of Astaara’s work, particularly in how to operationalise their approach to cyber.
“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, who has spent 14 years working in underwriting commented: “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.”
“Astaara is an innovative company, with a problem-solving mentality which is a quality I admire very much. The team is very experienced, and I am looking forward to learning from them all.”
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.”
