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A former naval captain who worked at the forefront of the development of information security strategy for the Royal Navy has joined Astaara as deputy chief cyber officer.

Philip Ponsford, who wrote the Navy’s first cyber security guidance, spent 30 years in senior roles at sea and ashore. He also spent three years at the centre of UK cross‐government maritime security, as deputy director of the National Maritime Information Centre (NMIC).

‘Whilst at NMIC it became very apparent to me that there are many companies offering cyber advice but there are very few with the ability to translate this into a realistic and valuable product. Astaara is clearly well ahead in this field and coupling their offering with an insurance product is truly groundbreaking. The team that Astaara are bringing together is in my opinion world beating,’ said Mr Ponsford, who added that he is looking forward to working with a very highly qualified and experienced multi‐disciplinary team.

‘I will bring an experienced mariner’s eye to every aspect of Astaara’s work, particularly in how to operationalise their approach to cyber. My experience at NMIC gives me an unparalleled understanding of how industry and government should most effectively interact in all spheres of maritime security.’

Also joining the senior team at Astaara is Samira Hmam, who takes up the role of senior business development director. She has spent 14 years working in underwriting.

‘My past experience in the marine insurance industry has taught me lessons and skills I will of course apply to my new role with Astaara. Most of all, I am looking forward to bringing my enthusiasm, motivation and passion for excellent customer experience,’ said Miss Hmam.

‘Astaara is an innovative company, with a problem-solving mentality which is a quality I admire very much. The team is very experienced and I am looking forward to learning from them all.

‘I am looking forward to learning all about marine cyber risks and the challenges shipowners/ports and terminals face today in order to be able to guide them with the solutions Astaara has designed for them.’

Astaara’s CEO Robert Dorey said: ‘These latest appointments are very important to Astaara and we are delighted to be expanding the team once again with such experienced people. Our aim is to provide the very best advice to our clients and with Philip and Samira on board we are in an even better position to do this.’