Sulmara has opened a new office in Bristol to strengthen its technical leadership and accelerate innovation in subsea data solutions.
The site will host a specialist team focused on enterprise data infrastructure, software development and analytics using artificial intelligence and machine learning. Their work aims to reduce offshore personnel, improve survey accuracy and shorten project timelines.
Richard Goodwin has been appointed chief information officer and will lead Sulmara’s global technical development and operations from the new base. He brings more than 25 years of experience, including senior global roles at Capgemini.
“This is more than just a new office – it’s a highly experienced team ready to deliver from day one,” said Goodwin. “With AI and machine learning, we see a huge opportunity to transform underwater exploration – making it safer, faster, and more precise than ever before.”
Sulmara chief executive Kevin McBarron said: “Having this team in place adds further depth to the expertise we offer our clients, and we’re genuinely looking forward to working together.”
The Bristol hub will develop tools for UXO identification, seafloor target picking and boulder detection, supporting wider adoption of remote technologies.
Sulmara said the expansion reflects its commitment to data-driven innovation and delivering faster, safer and more efficient subsea services.


