He brings a rare combination of seafaring and legal expertise to his role. Qualified as a solicitor in England and Wales and a former master mariner, he has been based in Singapore for more than six years. His unique background enables him to provide practical, informed advice to clients navigating the most challenging maritime disputes.

Before beginning his legal training, Mark spent a decade at sea with Shell, sailing on LNG, LPG, and oil tankers up to the rank of chief officer. He also worked in Shell’s vetting department in London and gained six years of ship management experience in quality assurance, vetting, and superintendency roles. His career ashore has included senior positions in ship management and quality assurance, where he oversaw safety audits, vetting performance, and compliance with international standards.

Mark holds an LLB in Scots Law from the University of Strathclyde, a Graduate Diploma in Law from the University of Law, and a Legal Practice Certificate from Northumbria University. He is also a Freeman of the Honourable Company of Master Mariners and an Associate Fellow of the Nautical Institute.

During his career so far, Joe has gained a wealth of experience acting for and representing clients in matters subject to the jurisdiction of both the High Court and London Arbitration.

Prior to studying law, Joe spent 13 years at sea, during which he sailed in the rank of captain onboard various vessels, including the AMSA ETV and the Trinity House vessel ‘Patricia’. While at sea, he also sailed onboard offshore survey and geophysical drilling vessels under charter to oil majors including BP, Shell, and Equinor, as well as passenger ro-ro vessels operated by Stena Line, and tankers operated by BP.

After coming ashore, Joe was awarded the Graduate Diploma in Law from the University of East Anglia with distinction. He qualified in December 2020 and before joining Penningtons Manches Cooper, he spent six years at a boutique shipping practice, focusing mainly on dry shipping matters.