AN updated computer network has helped Guernsey Ship Management keep ahead of the competition. The company has updated its computer network to cut costs and improve services.

Speaking as it marked its 21st birthday, managing director Neil Carrington said that innovations would continue to be integrated.

‘There is increasing competition from other jurisdictions so we use technology as much as possible to maintain a cost-effective service while keeping the quality the client is looking for,’ he said.

Mr Carrington said that the company was increasing electronic data transfers, such as financial information, to improve its operating process.

Guernsey Ship Management was set up in 1983 by the Bachmann Group, which is still the parent company.

Under current regulations, UK ship operators who employ offshore-based seafarers do not have to pay national insurance contributions. But seafarers based offshore still come under UK employment law.

GSM provides two services – it provides crew to ship operators and administers the operators’ Guernsey companies.

It is now the British Isles’ largest offshore employer of seafarers. It manages the payroll of 7,000 employees, including one-third of the total UK seafaring workforce.

‘We have developed a good reputation but we have also benefited from being part of the Bachmann Group and the strength that has put behind us,’ said Mr Carrington.

As part of its birthday celebrations, the company invited clients to visit Guernsey and the offices.

‘It was an opportunity for clients to visit us and to meet each other and speak about their experiences.’

Guernsey Ship Management has just been awarded the ISO 9001 standard which shows that its systems and procedures reach a high standard and that it operates in the proper manner.

Mr Carrington said that to be successful in the highly regulated shipping and energy markets, it was important to have some form of certification to help show a commitment to best practice.

The awards also helped to improve business performance and concentrate the mind.

Following its latest audit, Guernsey Ship Management has also been recommended for an Investors in People award.