Derek Leiper

Background

About Derek Leiper

With over three decades in the marine industry, I bring deep-rooted expertise in marine operations, safety management, and regulatory compliance with extensive experience in the operational management of ERRVs, PSVs, SSVs, and SOVs vessels across global offshore sectors.Having held senior QHSE and operational leadership positions, where I’ve been responsible for managing large, complex vessel fleets and driving excellence in both day-to-day operations and long-term strategic planning.I have led the integration of environmental and ESG principles into marine operations, driving emission reduction, fuel efficiency, and waste management initiatives, while supporting ISO 14001 compliance, ESG reporting, and responsible marine stewardship.Experienced in writing, implementation and management of complex ISO and ISM compliant Safety and Operational Management Systems, delivered behavioural safety programmes and championed operational & Environmental efficiency while maintaining the highest standards of risk control. I’ve also served on key industry bodies panels and workgroups, including IMCA, the Marine Safety Forum, and the UK Chamber of Shipping, contributing to marine assurance practices, policy development, and international safety initiatives.As a qualified Advanced Accident Investigation Leader, I have conducted and led numerous complex investigations—identifying root causes, systemic issues, and human factors—and developed sustainable, operationally sound corrective actions that enhance organisational learning and resilience.