Global marine infrastructure consultancy Moffatt & Nichol has appointed a commercial lead for its emerging technology solution NextPort.
Andy Barrons has joined the NextPort leadership team as Chief Commercial Officer to spearhead the product’s initial rollout to terminal operators. Barrons joins a strong team with deep domain experience led by Oscar Pernia, Chief Technology Officer.
Through its investment in NextPort, Moffatt & Nichol seeks to accelerate the development of smart port solutions.
NextPort works by building a digital twin of the port or terminal which integrates multiple operating systems and previously fragmented and siloed data. This enables operational improvement, trouble shooting and data and predictive analytics to support real-time and longer term strategic decision making.
Moffatt & Nichol Chief Executive Eric Nichol said: “NextPort is a game-changer for the ports and maritime sector, enabling smarter operations, improved investment value and reduction of wasteful processes.
“Our combination of sector-leading software development combined with port and terminal specialists has enabled the development of a solution which goes to the root of operational inefficiency to make long-term improvements.”
NextPort Chief Technology Officer Oscar Pernia said: “Today’s competitive advantage for ports and terminals lies in their use of data. We are already working with terminal and port operators globally to test and refine NextPort as the product’s capability increases. Andy joins the team at a pivotal moment. We’re ready to deepen client connections and increase product rollout and next innovations with digital twins and artificial intelligence.”
Next Port Chief Commercial Officer Andy Barrons said: “NextPort is set to be a major disruptor in the way ports and terminals operate, bringing data and process to a point where they are poised to reap the benefits of machine learning, artificial intelligence and digitization. It is exciting to be part of the next wave of innovation, working with industry partners to optimise and leverage their operations through real-time understanding and troubleshooting, and in-depth operational insights.”
