Business Development for the Region

In 2013, OSL invested in new premises on Henry Boot Way, reflecting a commitment to expanding our team and enhancing Hull’s involvement in sustainable energy solutions. With a track record of attracting university graduates and international engineers alike, we have now taken on a new Head of Business Development to lead a programme of economic and technical expansion.

Richard Drake is a chartered chemical engineer with sixteen years’ industry experience, specialising in paper technology, process control, asset optimisation, and five years as an engineering consultant. With a career that has taken him to Germany, the US and South East Asia, Richard has now firmly rooted himself in the UK once again, dedicating his skills to the OSL philosophy of applying Clever Thinking to today’s engineering challenges.

“It’s very exciting to join OSL,” said Richard. “I’m returning to the gas and oil sector after some time in the pharmaceutical industry, with the mission to broaden our technical competencies and regional standing.”

Quality customer service remains a priority for OSL, working on a range of high profile projects in the UK, Europe and further afield. Richard’s role will focus both on existing clients and developing partnerships through regular contact to understand each other’s role. With a personable nature, commercial mind and multidisciplined background, we're confident that as our new Head of Business Development, Richard will help the company to bring more trade to the Humber region and beyond.

“OSL places emphasis on solving the challenges of the UK gas, liquefied natural gas, low carbon and renewable sectors,” said Alastair Robertson, Principal Director. “The growing demand for clean, safe energy and the addressing of climate change by reducing greenhouse gases guide the way in which we work, and Richard will be the skilled liaison between clients and engineers.”

Building on OSL’s existing links with industry trade bodies, Richard’s duties also include participation and support of events staged by the IChemE, IMechE, EEEGR, Renewables Network and the Energy Institute. 

Richard said: “My mission is to help OSL continually develop and grow, working closely with customers and partners whilst diversifying opportunities. This signals a new chapter for OSL, one that will draw commerce to the city and create new jobs in the process. It’s a “bigger picture” form of Business Development, designed to go beyond our offices and benefit the economy for miles around.”

Connect with Richard Drake on LinkedIn.