Growing with Oceanscan
With more than 15 years at Oceanscan, Chris has witnessed the company evolve from a growing specialist equipment provider into the global business it is today. Having progressed through engineering, sales, operations and leadership roles, he brings a unique perspective to his position as General Manager, one built on technical expertise, commercial understanding and a genuine passion for delivering for customers.
Chris joined Oceanscan in 2010 after studying Electrical Engineering at Robert Gordon University. Prior to that he worked as a field engineer with BT Openreach, developing the practical problem-solving skills and self-reliance that would become hallmarks of his career.
Since joining the business, Chris has built his experience from the ground up, taking on roles across multiple departments and gaining first-hand knowledge of every aspect of the operation. That journey has given him an appreciation for the challenges faced by both customers and colleagues, helping shape the collaborative leadership style he brings to the business today.
My main focus in every role I’ve undertaken has been to perform as best as I possibly can while continuing to develop both my technical and professional skills.
Chris Watson
That commitment to continuous improvement has been a constant throughout Chris’s career. Whether learning new technical disciplines, developing commercial expertise or considering further education in business management, he remains focused on finding ways to grow and improve.
Today, that mindset extends beyond personal development to helping drive Oceanscan’s continued success.
Putting customers first
At the heart of Chris’s approach is a strong belief that customer service should never be compromised. In an industry where tight deadlines, complex logistics and demanding offshore schedules are the norm, he understands the importance of providing responsive support and practical solutions when customers need them most.
“We understand that price is often one of the most important factors for our clients, particularly in a challenging market. We always work hard to ensure our quotations are as competitive as possible, but we also believe our service is second to none, which is also really valuable.”
For Chris, one of Oceanscan’s greatest strengths is the direct access customers have to experienced decision-makers. By removing unnecessary barriers and ensuring customers can speak directly with knowledgeable members of the team, Oceanscan can respond quickly when projects are under pressure and timelines are critical.
While coordinating equipment, resources and project requirements can be one of the more demanding aspects of the role, it’s also what Chris finds most rewarding.
“Pulling jobs together can be one of the most stressful parts of the role, but it’s equally rewarding when you see equipment leave the building on time and know you’ve met every one of the customer’s requirements.”
Leading the next chapter
As General Manager, Chris is now helping lead Oceanscan through one of the most exciting periods in its history. A significant part of that journey has been the move into the company’s new state-of-the-art facility, an investment designed not only to support future growth, but also to create an environment where people enjoy coming to work.
“The new building has created a workplace that our staff love to come to. We’ve invested in facilities that go beyond what you’d normally expect from a workspace, helping us create an environment where people can thrive.”
The new facility also reflects Oceanscan’s ongoing commitment to quality and innovation. Among the capabilities Chris is particularly proud of are the company’s advanced calibration facilities, which help ensure customers can rely on equipment that has been tested, maintained and certified to the highest standards.
Throughout his career, Chris has also had the opportunity to work across the globe, supporting projects and customers in locations ranging from Argentina and Bahrain to Singapore and the United States. For him, the chance to experience different cultures and environments is one of the industry’s greatest rewards.
“The work is important, but one of the biggest benefits of this industry is the opportunity to visit places you might never otherwise experience.”
Ask Chris what he enjoys most about the subsea rental industry and the answer is simple.
“It’s clichéd, but no two days are the same.”
It’s a sentiment that reflects both the pace of the industry and the variety of his role. One day may involve supporting an urgent customer requirement; the next could focus on long-term business strategy, operational improvements or future investment plans.
After more than a decade and a half with Oceanscan, that sense of challenge and opportunity continues to motivate him. As the business enters its next phase of growth, Chris remains focused on what has always mattered most, supporting customers, investing in people and ensuring Oceanscan continues to deliver the expertise and service that clients rely on around the world.
