Gwenael Bardou is an expert in composite materials. He explains his role as a consultant to shipyards and yachting customers.
Gwenael, what was your background before setting up your own business?
After training in composite materials and project management, I began my career with the aircraft manufacturer Airbus. Then I turned to the world of shipbuilding, which has always fascinated me. I joined the Marsaudon Composites shipyard, then went on to work with a number of ocean racing teams based in southern Brittany.
On the strength of this shipyard experience, I joined the team that founded the Alibi shipyard, which specialized in top-of-the-range composite catamarans. Based in Thailand, the yard started from scratch. I created and organized the production facilities, developing the workshops and processes, while training the teams.
I was then recruited by the Gunboat shipyard, who initially entrusted me with the management of the production lines, before directing me towards customer relations. I was in charge of communication between the design office, the production line and the customer.
In early 2023, I decided to set up my own business.
What interest can a customer have in calling on your services to monitor the construction of his boat?
My approach is holistic, with the aim of making both parties - the customer and the construction site - winners. My role begins upstream of the construction phase, so that I'm aware of all the project's specifics. This enables me to make the best possible selection of potential subcontractors. Then I follow all the important stages of construction to ensure that the customer is not short-changed. If there's a problem with the construction, it's up to me to find a way forward.
You must be pretty badly perceived by the yards?
On the contrary, construction sites appreciate having a professional contact person to build up a relationship of trust and to create a relay with the customer. We also guarantee delivery deadlines, to avoid any compensation or other inconvenience at the time of delivery.
Do you also audit production tools?
Yes, absolutely. I pass on my knowledge of the production line to job sites. There's no standard formula that can be applied to every job. Each production unit is different, and requires a specific study. My aim is to improve or implement processes that will result in productivity gains.
Do you only work on European sites?
No, demand is currently very strong on the Asian continent, where numerous shipyards are entering the market. Their profiles are very different, and I'm in demand for racing and cruising multihulls, as well as supply-type service boats. Australia and New Zealand also have a strong composite multihull culture.
