How did you start your journey at Dolphin Drilling?
I began my journey with Dolphin Drilling in 2006 as a Tourpusher, joining the Bredford Dolphin in Gdansk, Poland, during her upgrades and Special Periodic Survey (SPS) at the Remontowa shipyard in preparation for operations in Norway.
In 2009, I transitioned to a temporary onshore role as Assistant Rig Manager for the Bredford Dolphin, a position that was later extended. By 2011, I was appointed Rig Manager for Bredford, and the following year, I took over as Rig Manager for the Bideford Dolphin.
As the industry downturn took hold in 2015, Dolphin was forced to lay up several rigs. In 2018, I stepped into the role of Lay-up Manager, overseeing the preservation and maintenance of four rigs in southern Norway. Then, in 2020, I returned to active operations as Rig Manager for the Borgland Dolphin when she was reactivated for work in Norway.
How would you describe the company culture?
The company culture is collaborative, supportive, and growth-oriented. A strong emphasis on open communication, mutual respect, and teamwork creates a welcoming and motivating environment. People here genuinely care about each other’s success, and leadership encourages innovation and continuous learning. It’s the kind of culture where you feel empowered to share ideas and take initiative, knowing you’ll be supported.
What makes Dolphin different from other companies you’ve previously worked at?
What really sets Dolphin apart from other companies I’ve worked at is the culture of openness and approachability. The communication lines are incredibly short - you can easily reach out to colleagues or leadership, and your voice is heard. You’re not just a number here; people know your name, recognise your contributions, and genuinely care about your development. There’s a strong sense of freedom with responsibility - you’re trusted to do your work within the agreed framework without being micromanaged, which creates both accountability and a great sense of ownership. That, combined with the team spirit and focus on operational excellence and safety, really makes Dolphin stand out.
How has Dolphin adapted to industry changes or challenges over the years?
Dolphin has consistently shown its ability to adapt to industry changes and challenges with a forward-thinking mindset. The company strongly emphasises environmental responsibility and the adoption of new technology, while ensuring that changes are implemented in a way that makes sense for the overall operation. Regulatory developments are taken seriously, and Dolphin has a track record of aligning with them practically and effectively. It’s clear that the company is committed to continuous improvement, while balancing progress with operational realities.
What are your most memorable moments throughout your time here?
Some of my most memorable moments include being part of the preparation and operation of Bredford Dolphin, the outstanding performance of Bideford Dolphin, which earned the title "Rig of the Year" in Equinor’s full rig portfolio for consecutive years - a well-deserved recognition. I was also involved in successfully reactivating the Borgland Dolphin, which started with no downtime or issues. What makes these moments truly special is that they weren’t individual accomplishments; they resulted from strong teamwork across crews and disciplines throughout the company. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when people work together with commitment and professionalism.
What company value resonates with you most?
The company value that resonates with me most is trust. It’s the foundation that allows everyone to feel confident in their roles and empowered to take ownership of their work. When trust is present, communication flows freely, collaboration is genuine, and people support each other through challenges. This creates a positive environment where we can all strive for excellence and keep moving forward together.
What has kept you committed and motivated to Dolphin for so long?
The dynamic working environment at Dolphin has kept me committed and motivated. No two days are the same, which keeps things engaging and challenging. I appreciate how each day brings new opportunities to learn and grow, tackling different challenges alongside a skilled team. The variety and pace make the role fulfilling, and knowing that I’m contributing to important work within a supportive culture keeps me motivated.
What lessons have you learned during your time at Dolphin?
One important lesson I’ve learned at Dolphin is how crucial it is for both onshore and offshore teams to understand each other’s frameworks and processes. This mutual understanding helps ensure smoother operations and better coordination. I’ve also realised the significance of taking ownership; not just of your own tasks, but also of the equipment and assets we rely on daily. When everyone takes responsibility for their part, it strengthens safety, efficiency, and overall success.
Any words of wisdom for employees just starting their journey with Dolphin?
My advice for anyone starting their journey with Dolphin is always to be honest and open - don’t hesitate to ask questions whenever you need clarity. It is a priority to follow company procedures and policies closely, as they keep everyone safe and ensure smooth operations. Most importantly, take pride in the work you do, because every role contributes to our shared success.
How would you like to see the company evolve in the next decade?
Looking ahead, I would love to see Borgland back in operation consistently and efficiently, contributing steadily to our success. Equally important is nurturing our existing contracts and ensuring the continued excellent performance on the Blackford and PBLJ. I believe these efforts will create a strong foundation for the company’s future, hopefully enabling us to grow further and celebrate many more milestones and anniversaries together.
