Olly Minett, Marine Technical Manager, from Australia

From Australia to Ardersier in the Highlands of Scotland

Olly Minett is a Marine Technical Manager, from Australia, who has come to the Highlands via a spell in London. He works for Haventus, a company that redevelops and manages sites to support scaling up of the renewable energy sector, and is based at Ardersier, part of the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport.

We chatted with Olly to find out what drives someone to swap life down under (via London) for the Highlands of Scotland. 

What brought you to the Highlands and how long have you lived here?

"I was brought here to the Highlands by a unique career opportunity with Haventus, redeveloping Ardersier Port into an Energy Transition Facility. I’ve now been working here for 10 months." 

What is your role at Haventus and what attracted you to this position?

"My role at Haventus is Marine Technical Manager. Previously I worked as a ports and maritime engineering consultant where I would work on a number of different projects at any one time from an office in the city. By working here on site, I can leverage the knowledge that I have gained over the years while having a direct role in the delivery of a nationally significant project and influence its outcomes.

"Climate change is something I am passionate about and so it's also very fulfilling to work for a company that is directly facilitating clean energy transition while being proactive in protecting the surrounding environment.

"Haventus is unique in that we are not only constructing the port but will also operate it when it's complete. This means that once the first phase of the port is constructed, my role will expand into operations while also remaining directly involved in the delivery of future phases of the development."

What do you love about living and working in the region?

"Having worked in London for the last six years, I find the laidback lifestyle and the friendly people in the Highlands very refreshing. There are endless outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, going to the beach, and golf right on your doorstep which you take advantage of not only on weekends but also before and after work, thanks to the very long summer days.

"I’m originally from Australia and so it feels a bit more like home up here, albeit a bit colder!"

Why do you think other people should consider moving to the region and a career in renewables?

"The global transition to renewable energy is inevitable, and Scotland is right at the forefront of producing offshore wind clean energy. If you're motivated toward a net zero society, then there aren’t many better places to kickstart your journey. You can make an impact while also enjoying a great quality of life and the lower cost of living.

"The knowledge and skills that you gain will be highly sought after and transferable to anywhere else in the world. And if you enjoy the outdoors and open spaces, then you will never be bored in the Highlands."

Find out more about Haventus on their website.