Dryad Maritime Intelligence has announced the appointment of David Hunkin OBE as their Commercial Director who will be based at their Operations Centre in Hampshire, UK.

In this new role, David will lead Dryad’s commercial business development with some exciting plans for international expansion in 2013.  Supported by Dryad’s Executive Board, his remit will be to ensure that Dryad clients remain fully informed and prepared for current and future security challenges.

This appointment marks the next phase of the maritime intelligence agency’s expansion which is poised to secure new global clients in 2013. Reporting to Dryad’s Managing Director Graeme Gibbon Brooks, this appointment represents Dryad’s continuing development and commitment to providing the best maritime intelligence available.

David brings a wealth of experience to the Dryad team largely from his 25 years in the Royal Navy. Most recently however, he was an Executive Director with JP Morgan where he led its Network Project Management Office and Crisis Response Organisation.

A Principal Warfare Officer, Mine Clearance Diver and Commando, his mix of skills led to an unorthodox Naval care

er across the Middle East, Africa and the Caucuses. At sea, he has Commanded his own ship and in 2008 was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List for leading a Task Force of 22 vessels clearing the final Mine Danger Areas of the Northern Arabian Gulf.  David has first-hand experience of the security challenges facing businesses in uncertain environments and in 2011 was a Security & Evacuation Advisor to British Embassies in the Middle East during the Arab Uprising.

Commenting on the appointment Graeme Gibbon Brooks, Dryad’s Managing Director said:

‘Since Dryad was established in 2007, we have continued to grow globally and develop a second to none reputation for the delivery of accurate and informed maritime intelligence. I believe it is now timely and appropriate to appoint a dedicated Commercial Director to take Dryad into 2013 and beyond.’

‘David is an excellent leader, with a proven track record for delivering strategic success. His time served in the Royal Navy demonstrated his flair for operational effectiveness, skills which he has effortlessly transferred to the commercial sector. His experience will be invaluable in delivering and developing our services worldwide’.