News

Press Release – May 2007

Xodus develop environmental capability with acquisition of Aurora Xodus Group has acquired leading environmental consultancy, Aurora Environmental, for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition underlines Xodus’ intention to rapidly expand its environmental division which will now be known as Xodus AURORA. The fast growing oil and gas consultancy believes the market is ripe for an integrated approach to engineering and environmental issues. It is anticipated that the division will employ 30 people by the end of the year, more than doubling Aurora’s existing workforce. “Since setting up the business in 2005, we have been looking at developing an environmental capability,” says Colin Manson Xodus managing director. “After researching the market, we believed that Aurora with its excellent reputation, experienced staff and a culture similar to our own was a natural fit.

Aurora's Zoë Cairns (centre) with Xodus directors, Richard Heard (left) and Stephen Swindell (right).

“We have long-maintained the view that, with environmental requirements increasing, it is vital and more efficient to make sure those requirements are built into the engineering design process. This deal ensures that Xodus is now able to bring a unique and integrated approach to fill the gap in the market.”

Orkney-based Aurora provides independent environmental survey and consultancy services to industry and government worldwide. Formed in 2000 by Liz Foubister and Zoe Cairns, the company has 12 staff and a client portfolio that includes BP, Chevron, CNR International, ConocoPhillips, ExxonMobil, Maersk and Venture Production.

Commenting on the deal, Zoe Cairns says: “Aurora has experience of working on large, high profile contracts in both the UK and overseas and has an extremely solid platform from which to capitalise on the rapidly growing environmental market. Being part of Xodus will allow us to fast-track our growth and exploit all the opportunities, particularly in the oil and gas sector.”

Mrs Foubister and Ms Cairns will head up Xodus AURORA from their purpose-built facilities in Orkney and remain committed to the region.

“We have built up a successful business from Orkney and will continue to grow through the new opportunities afforded by being part of Xodus.”

Xodus is projecting to increase staff from 12 to 30 within a year, with staff divided between the offices in Orkney and Aberdeen.

Mr Manson concludes: “On the back of this acquisition we will be able to rapidly expand our environmental division and diversify into other areas such as marine renewables and aquaculture where Aurora has an excellent reputation.”

‹ Return to News