(EnergyAsia, October 10 2012, Wednesday) — Keppel Offshore & Marine Ltd, the Singapore-based world leading oil rig builder, has announced several new appointments in its senior management following the death of its former marine managing director Nelson Yeo last month.

Replacing him is Michael Chia, 59, who will oversee Keppel O&M’s marine division which includes Keppel Shipyard, Keppel Singmarine and other overseas yards. Mr Chia will continue in his current positions as managing director (technology) of Keppel O&M and managing director of Keppel O&M Technology Centre.

Mr Chia is also Director (Group Strategy & Development) of Keppel Corporation, the parent of Keppel O&M. A veteran in the offshore and marine industry for more than 30 years, he has held various appointments within the Keppel Group.

Keppel O&M has named Wong Kok Seng, 62, managing director for offshore with responsibility for its offshore division including Keppel FELS and overseas yards. He remains managing director of Keppel FELS.

Both Mr Chia and Mr Wong report to the company’s chief operating officer, Chow Yew Yuen.

Chor How Jat, previously acting managing director of Keppel Shipyard, has been promoted to managing director. He reports to Mr Michael Chia.

Keppel O&M has also made a number of appointments to the chairmanships of companies within the group.

Mr Chow Yew Yuen has been appointed chairman of Keppel Singmarine, while Mr Chia has taken on the chairmanship of three Keppel O&M subsidiaries: Keppel Smit Towage Pte Ltd, Maju Maritime Pte Ltd and DPS Bristol (Holdings) Ltd.

Toh Ko Lin, senior general manager (Commerical) of Keppel Singmarine has been appointed chairman of Keppel Philippines Marine Inc, Keppel Batangas Shipyard and Keppel Subic Shipyard Inc.

The appointments became effective October 1 2012.