Meet Ivan Moriarty, Senior Principal Surveyor, ABL Houston
The team at ABL Group shares the passion, vision and values for working in energy and the world’s oceans, de-risking and driving the energy transition. We are driven by the idea that the best work is born from professionalism, diligence… and fun. You know ABL Group, but do you know our team?
Give us a glimpse into your day-to-day life at ABL. What keeps you on your toes?
“No two days at ABL are ever the same One moment, I might be dealing with a major marine casualty under an insurance policy (think high-profile cases like the DALI) and the next, I’m carrying out a routine inspection on an offshore vessel.
That variety is what keeps me on my toes. And then there’s the travel: I’ve covered 18 states so far, including Hawaii. It’s a role that’s full of surprises, and that’s exactly what I love about it.”
What drew you to our industry and what keeps you passionate about it?
Honestly, I can’t say seafaring was in my blood – it wasn’t a traditional career path where I grew up, and most people around me couldn’t relate to it. I stumbled into this industry by accident. Back in secondary school, I was rushing to meet an application deadline and ended up applying for a course called ‘Nautical Science’ without really knowing what it was. As they say, the rest is history!
Looking back, that split-second decision shaped my entire career. What started as an accident turned into a journey that’s taken me across oceans and introduced me to a global network of professionals.
Can you tell us about something exciting you are working on right now?
Right now, one of the exciting things I’m involved in is attending industry events like the Workboat Show. These events are a great opportunity to be client-facing, meeting maritime lawyers, P&I correspondents, and other key players in the industry. It’s not just about business; the evening events make it even better because they allow us to connect with clients in a more personal and relaxed setting. It’s a chance to strengthen relationships and stay plugged into what’s happening across the maritime world.
In your role, what do you see as the biggest challenges, specifically in the US market, and how can these be effectively addressed to deliver efficient projects
One of the biggest challenges in the U.S. market (especially here in Houston) is building relationships and getting known. Maritime and offshore work is very relationship-driven, and in such a large city, it can be tough to connect with clients unless they’ve worked with you before. If they don’t have that history, they’re less likely to call you. The key is perseverance – constantly showing up, networking, and demonstrating value until you become a trusted name. Attending industry events, staying visible, and being proactive in outreach are essential.
Beyond the work, what’s your favourite part about being part of the ABL team in Houston? Any fun team moments you’d like to share?
Beyond the work, my favourite part about being part of the ABL team in Houston is definitely the people. The team has such a friendly, welcoming vibe – it makes coming to work enjoyable. Nicolas, our Regional Director, is based here and is incredibly approachable and open about his vision for the company, which creates a really positive atmosphere.
We also have regional meetings every four months, and they’re always fun, especially when Lauren and Auntrell from HR are involved! They make sure it’s not just business but also a chance to connect and laugh. Plus, the dinner events we’ve had were fantastic, great food, great company, and plenty of laughs. It’s those moments that really make you feel part of something special.
If you could change one thing about your industry, what would it be and why
Although this doesn’t directly affect me, I find the current treatment of seafarers appalling. For example, in the U.S., seafarers generally have no shore leave, which severely impacts their mental health and well-being. Beyond that, there are several other issues that need urgent attention, such as: poor living conditions onboard ships, excessive contract lengths, stringent visa and immigration restrictions, crew change crisis, such as global disruptions (like pandemics), and thousands of seafarers were stranded on ships for months beyond their contracts. lack of mental health support.
More about Ivan
Position: Senior Principal Surveyor
Office: ABL Houston
Hobbies: Golfing, Walking and Socialising
Favourite Book: An Unsung Hero (about a seafarer and explorer Tom Crean) who was also from Co. Kerry, Ireland who was on both Scott and Shackelton expeditions.
Favourite Movie: Borat
Meet Ivan and the rest of the Americas team at this year’s Workboat Show 2025, where we’re excited to showcase ABL Group’s full marine expertise – from shipyard supervision and construction management to clean-shipping, emissions consulting, and comprehensive marine assurance services: