ABB's Stuart Thompson wins Future of Field Service award

Stuart Thompson, President of ABB Electrification Service, has been named a winner of the Future of Field Service's 2024 Stand Out 50 Awards.

The awards programme recognises leaders for their innovative approaches, authentic leadership, and execution of service strategies. Under Thompson's direction, ABB Electrification Service has transformed into a business with revenue exceeding USD $1.1 billion and employing over 4,000 staff across more than 50 countries.

Thompson stated, "Today's landscape demands fresh approaches as businesses face energy insecurity, cybersecurity risks and sustainability pressures. In line with changing client needs, at ABB Electrification Service, we've shifted from traditional servicing to preventive, predictive asset management powered by real-time data and analytics. Our new strategic advisory services enhance reliability and safety at the application level while driving profitability and sustainability operationally."

In February this year, ABB Electrification Service announced the acquisition of the SEAM Group, a US-based provider of asset management and advisory services, which was completed in the past quarter. This acquisition has bolstered ABB Electrification Service's capabilities in predictive, preventative, and corrective maintenance and electrical safety, renewables, and asset management.

Pedro Robredo, Senior Vice President of Americas, ABB Electrification Service, remarked, "Future-proofing assets is becoming more important as industries globally and in the United States seek to balance maximising output and minimising costs with sustainable, efficient operations. All the while, amid increasing cost pressures, the appeal of 'outcome-based' approaches to servicing, enabled by preventative and predictive models, becomes even more critical, enabling us to support our customers with the flexibility they need to meet their goals."

ABB Electrification Service's reach extends across the United States, partnering with numerous companies across sectors, including utilities, oil and gas, data centres, and commercial buildings, employing service methodologies adapted to their specific needs.

The division has also expanded its partnerships with start-ups to advance digital solutions and energy management. This includes collaborations with Pratexo, which offers IoT sensor technology for data management, and Ndustrial, a start-up focused on AI-powered energy management.

Thompson concluded, "It's incredibly encouraging to see the increased demand and investment in electrification service. Our customers understand that radical changes need to be made in the way they operate today, and our aim is to bridge the gap between intention and action. It's never been a better time to be in our business as we partner with our customers to future-proof their operations for a digital, low-carbon future."