OUR TEAM
At the heart of DIGATEX is a Management Team whose vision, engineering expertise and dedication come together to drive innovation and excellence.
MEET THE TEAM
Each member of our team brings many years of relevant experience and a unique perspective with which we are shaping the future of asset data digitisation in asset-intensive industries.
From pioneering digital transformation strategies to leading complex projects, our leaders are committed to delivering outstanding on-time, in-full results and pushing the boundaries of asset digitisation.
Derek Middlemas
CEO
UAE
Derek brings over 40 years of experience in the process, power, and marine sectors. His career began in the design and construction of significant onshore and offshore capital projects and was followed by numerous senior management roles. At Foster Wheeler and Bechtel, he held key positions in Engineering and Information Systems, from which he managed highly complex technical projects.
Focusing on integrating information technology to enhance business processes across the entire asset lifecycle, Derek played a pivotal role at Hexagon and AVEVA, both leading providers of engineering IT solutions. While at AVEVA, he contributed to the company’s turnover growth from a £20m to £235m. Specialising in strategic development, Derek was instrumental in introducing new solutions and expanding the group’s footprint into new international markets. He served on the AVEVA Board from 2009-2017.
Derek’s strength lies in his vast experience of devising and delivering digital transformation strategies within asset-heavy industries. His blend of practical engineering experience and strategic business acumen makes him a highly respected and sought-after asset digitisation specialist.
Richard Beck
Director and Co-Founder
Australia
Richard’s career is underpinned by a foundation in Electrical and Instrument Engineering, Process Automation, and Engineering Data Management.
His professional journey began in the mining industry in South Africa, where he was involved in numerous complex engineering environments and projects. The was followed by a spell as General Manager of Engineering at Aker Solutions in the UK.
In 2001, Richard ventured into the engineering software realm with AVEVA in the UK, spearheading the Information Management business during its nascent stages. In 2006, he assumed responsibility for the group’s Australian business unit.
Most recently, Richard has been at the forefront of digital transformation in the engineering sector, leading the development of the Worley Parson Digital Enterprise business in Australasia, where he has leveraged off his expertise in navigating the intersection of engineering and digital technologies.
Andrew Babkin
CTO
Europe
Andrew boasts over 15 years of experience in Information Technology design, support, development, project management, and consulting. Best known for his success in delivering complex IT projects on time, in full and within budget, Andrew’s problem-solving and risk mitigation skills have been a particular hallmark of his professional journey.
As a co-founder of several successful software product companies, he has been at the forefront of pioneering developments in the machine learning space, and he now steers the technical direction of DIGATEX in Europe, where his experience as CTO of development organisations with over 100 personnel underscores his ability to lead large teams and drive technological innovation.
Louise Webb
Marketing Director
UAE
Louise is an accomplished B2B marketing professional with over 20 years of experience in the software and services industry. Her career spans various leadership roles, including manager and director positions in prominent companies. Louise is known for her expertise in brand management and designing and executing quantifiable marketing programs, that align closely with a company’s business objectives.
Louise brings not only her extensive experience to DIGATEX but also a unique blend of creativity and enthusiasm. Her approach to marketing is both inventive and engaging, helping the company to differentiate itself in a competitive landscape.
Robert Frow
Business Development Director
UAE
Robert’s impressive career in international markets spans over 40 years and has been deeply rooted in asset-intensive industries such as oil, gas, and nuclear plants. A career which began in mechanical engineering has consistently focused on the use of engineering design systems and engineering information management solutions. His extensive experience includes working with multiple Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) firms, engineering software suppliers, and Owner Operators.
Along the way, Robert has held major roles including Information Management and Business Process Consultant at energy giant Hess. He has also been a Programme Manager for industry leaders like Intergraph and AVEVA. Earlier in his career, he was the CAD Application Manager for MW Kellogg.
At DIGATEX, Robert contributes his vast knowledge and experience in the practical application of technology, people, processes, and data. His expertise is invaluable in assisting clients with their digital transformation journeys and in achieving operational excellence. Robert’s pragmatic approach to technology and his deep understanding of industry challenges make him a pivotal member of the DIGATEX team, guiding clients through complex digital landscapes with skill and insight.
Mark Gardiner
Projects Director
UAE
Mark is a highly accomplished Projects Director with over 24 years of extensive experience in the Oil and Gas industry. Known for his personable nature and results-driven approach, he has a proven track record of designing complex processes and leading teams to deliver optimal business results.
Mark’s career began in the North Sea, where he worked as an Engineer for Halliburton and KCA Deutag. His journey then led him to a global performance role with the REACH Group, where he partnered with tier-one operators to enhance operational performance by synergizing people, processes, and technology.
For over a decade, Mark has been at the forefront of what is now considered ‘best practice’ in the industry. He has played a pivotal role in building and implementing performance strategies across the Middle East and Europe, showcasing his ability to lead and innovate in diverse and challenging environments.
At DIGATEX, Mark’s deep understanding of digitalisation’s potential to drive competitive advantage and enhance safety helps the company to navigate the evolving landscape of digital transformation in the Oil and Gas sector.
start THE conversation
Ready to unlock the full potential of your large, complex, and dispersed data assets?
Let’s start a conversation that could redefine the future of your operations. Contact DIGATEX today for an exploratory chat or to request more detailed information about our AIML-driven product suites. Our team of experts is eager to understand your challenges and demonstrate our innovative approach to digital transformation.