International energy consultancy Xodus Group has appointed Dr Tao Zhao as its new advanced engineering lead.

With over 15 years’ experience in subsea pipeline and riser design and analysis, Dr Zhao joins Xodus from Heerema Marine Contractors. Throughout his career, he has provided a range of analysis for offshore contractor and engineering consultants in both Thailand and the UK.

Dr Zhao said: 'I am pleased to be joining a company with such a strong reputation for engineering and thinking outside the box. I’m excited to work alongside a highly talented team and hope my experience and knowledge will strengthen our capabilities in the offshore energy sector.'

The appointment of Dr Zhao follows the recent additions of David Livermore and Gareth Jones.

Livermore joins as a technical safety and human factors consultant, who specialises in the human element of risk. The appointment will enable Xodus to advise clients on human factor risks to increase safe and efficient operations offshore.

Joining as a principal consultant in decommissioning, Mr Jones has more than 12 years’ experience and will also be responsible for advising and supporting operators on the environmental and social impacts associated with oil and gas activities.

Steve Swindell, CEO of Xodus Group said: 'Tao joins with a wealth of experience and several exciting ideas. His ability to solve complex engineering problems through numerical design tools and analytical formulations will be a real strength to the company.

'We are also pleased to welcome David and Gareth to the company, who are excellent additions to the technical safety and decommissioning teams respectively.'

Xodus offers engineering and advisory support to clients in the oil and gas, LNG, renewables and utilities industries worldwide. Through a unique combination of expertise, experience and agility, Xodus helps its clients to overcome the challenges they face throughout the life of their assets.