Netherlands-based subsea specialist WIND Group appoints new COO

WIND Group has appointed Renier van den Bichelaer as its chief operating officer and said Mr Bichelaer will also join the WIND Group management board.

"In 2024, chief operating officer Robbert van Diepen expressed his intention to wind down his role. To ensure a smooth transition, he will gradually transfer his responsibilities to Renier. Robbert will remain with WIND as director of business operations, overseeing cable recovery operations, SHEQ, contact for cable crew and internal projects," the company said.

Mr Bichelaer has served in leadership positions with Seaway 7, Maersk and Boskalis in the offshore energy and maritime sectors, and WIND Group emphasised his "strong background in project-based organisations". 

"He will apply his sector expertise and people-oriented leadership to further optimise WIND’s operations, enhance safety and quality, and strengthen overall organisational performance," the company said.