Dr. Andrew Garrad, the co-founder of Garrad Hassan, has announced he will retire from DNV GL on December 23, 2016.
Following the merger between DNV and GL Garrad Hassan two years ago, Andrew ceased to play an active operational role in the company, but remained associated with DNV GL, as advisor, as Chairman of Bristol’s year as European Green Capital (which DNV GL sponsored) and as President of the European Wind Energy Association 2013-2014.
He co-founded Garrad Hassan in 1984 and became President of GL Garrad Hassan after Germanischer Lloyd (GL) and Garrad Hassan merged in 2009. He ran the new company until 2012, when he became Chairman.
After the merger of DNV and GL, Andrew became a member of the DNV GL Energy Supervisory Board on the invitation of the former Group President and CEO, Henrik Madsen.
Despite his retirement, he will continue being active in the renewable energy industry. He said, “This a poignant moment for me. I have devoted my professional life to renewable energy and specifically to Garrad Hassan and GL Garrad Hassan. It has been great fun and very rewarding. I loved being the CEO of the world’s largest renewable energy consultancy and mobilising the amazing talent and energy of the staff for such a worthwhile cause."
He added, "Renewable energy has moved a long way since 1979 when I started; before most of the current staff were born and when I could carry a blade on my back! We have achieved a lot, but there is still a lot to do technically, socially and politically.”
David Walker, now Group Development Officer at DNV GL, and the former CEO of DNV GL - Energy, noted, “With his drive, passion and deep technical expertise, Andrew was able to transform his start-up into a global player – making it one of the most influential and impactful renewables advisory companies in the world. His influence in the wind industry extended far beyond Bristol, and he became a global authority with industry associations, academia and regulators."
"Thankfully for GL, and then DNV GL, Andrew chose to stay on to help with successive integrations. In that role, I would like to thank him for his support and personal mentorship, always given in Andrew’s kindly, but firm, English gentleman style,” David added.
