Pioneering subsea technology company SMD has strengthened its capabilities with key senior appointments, meeting the evolving needs of customers and growing demand for its advanced vehicles.
The company has appointed Ryan Lumsden as product line manager for ROVs and Paul Green as head of continuous improvement. Together, they hold decades of subsea engineering, product development, and operational expertise to support SMD’s technology roadmap, including its next-generation EV portfolio and first all-electric trencher.
Ryan brings around 30 years of industry experience, including senior roles with Rovtech and Saab Seaeye. His appointment will support the development of SMD’s portfolio as it provides solutions for key growth markets, including offshore wind, renewable energy, and critical subsea infrastructure.
Speaking on his appointment, Ryan said: “SMD has a strong reputation for delivering reliable solutions, but what is particularly exciting is its commitment to innovation and investment in technologies that support the future needs of the industry.
“The launch of the e-ROV marked an important step for us, and I’m looking forward to working closely with customers to build on that progress, delivering vehicles that embody a forward-thinking approach to product design and engineering.”
The senior appointments support a wider programme of investment at SMD, including the expansion of its capabilities through a £3 million TechWorks facility. The dedicated technology development and manufacturing centre supports innovation and production as the company prepares to bring more next-generation electric systems to market.
Supporting this growth is Paul Green, new head of continuous improvement. His role focuses on optimising manufacturing processes, improving operational performance and ensuring the business continues to scale as new technologies are brought to market.
Commenting on his role, Paul said: “As we deliver our sustainable growth plan, it’s important that our ways of working evolve with it. My job is to make our processes safer, quicker and better, helping us strengthen operational performance and continue delivering the quality innovations we are known for.”
Chairman Mike Jones added: “The subsea industry is evolving rapidly, driven by the growth of offshore wind and an increasing focus on cable security. We are seeing customers come to us for technologies and products that improve efficiency and reliability, and meet evolving operational demands.”
As the industry transitions towards electrification, SMD continues to invest in the development of next-generation technologies and has received multiple customer orders for its new electric ROVs. Deliveries of QuantumEV Construction machines and AtomEV IRM/Survey machines started in the first half of 2026.
Mike concluded: “By investing in people, facilities and technology, we are strengthening our position as an innovator within the subsea industry while continuing to support our customers as they respond to new challenges and opportunities. Close collaboration enables us to address critical industry challenges, from cable protection and asset integrity to operational efficiency.
“Whether through the development of new electric technologies or the continued evolution of our existing products, our focus remains on delivering solutions that help customers operate more efficiently, safely and sustainably.”