IKM Testing UK, a major service provider to the energy sector, is charging into its next phase of expansion with a new leader at the helm. Barry Summers has been named Regional Director, stepping into the role as the company announces a remarkable £23 million in contract wins within just the first half of 2025.
A Leadership Shift Amid Soaring Growth
Barry Summers isn’t new to IKM or the energy world. With over 14 years of experience across the global IKM Group, he’s well-acquainted with the demands and dynamics of the sector. He’s stepping into the position following the retirement of industry veteran Mark Rasmusen, whose career has spanned four decades, including 14 years guiding IKM Testing UK.
The timing couldn’t be more significant.
IKM Testing’s recent contract wins—tallying £23 million in value—are already 86% of its total 2024 turnover. That’s no fluke either. It follows a 42% jump in turnover from 2023 to 2024, with projections pointing to aggressive, sustained growth for the next five years.
There’s real momentum here, and Barry’s appointment marks the start of a new chapter.
From Australia to Aberdeen: Barry Summers Steps Up
Barry’s track record with IKM speaks for itself. His career includes senior roles like Operations Manager and Head of Operations, but it’s his international experience that really sets him apart.
One sentence here says it all: he knows the business inside out.
He held the role of Business Manager for IKM Testing Australia’s Pipeline and Process division, before returning to the UK in 2019. Back in Aberdeen, he helped expand the UK operation, not just in size, but in technical capacity too.
Now, as Regional Director, he’ll oversee key territories including:
-
Aberdeen (the UK’s energy hub)
-
East Mediterranean (a hotspot for gas projects)
-
West Africa (a growing focus for upstream investment)
This isn’t just about filling big shoes—it’s about stepping into them with a forward-facing strategy.
Rasmusen’s Legacy and a Global Footprint
Mark Rasmusen’s departure marks the end of a significant era for IKM Testing UK. He’s been pivotal in shaping the company’s UK operation, but his reach extended much further.
One of his most notable achievements? Helping launch IKM Testing Brasil, which now employs around 200 people. That effort underlined his vision for global expansion and his knack for spotting long-term potential.
A few parting words? Not yet shared publicly, but those who’ve worked alongside Mark say his impact will be long-lasting—and hard to match.
Why These £23 Million Contracts Matter
The first half of 2025 has been nothing short of explosive for IKM Testing UK’s balance sheet. Landing £23 million in contracts in just six months is not only impressive, it’s transformative.
What’s driving the surge?
-
Decommissioning: As mature fields wind down, IKM’s services are in high demand
-
Valve Services: A niche but critical offering in the maintenance and safety chain
-
Energy Transition: More clients want low-carbon solutions and IKM is tapping in
These wins also reflect wider industry confidence in the firm’s capabilities—particularly in harsh, technically challenging environments.
One line to remember: IKM isn’t just winning contracts—it’s winning trust.
A 5-Year Vision in a Changing Energy World
The energy industry isn’t what it used to be—and that’s the point.
IKM is gearing up for a future that’s cleaner, leaner, and globally integrated. With Barry at the wheel, the company will focus on both traditional strengths and newer opportunities tied to energy transition.
That means diversifying services, targeting new geographies, and strengthening client partnerships through innovation and reliability.
Here’s a quick look at the growth trend that’s got people talking:
| Year | Turnover (£ million) | Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | ~16.2 | – |
| 2024 | ~23 (estimated) | +42% |
| H1 2025 | 23 | Already 86% of 2024 |
For an industry known for booms and busts, that kind of consistency stands out.
What’s Next for IKM Testing UK?
With Barry Summers now in charge of operations across three continents, the focus turns to execution and innovation.
One-sentence summary? He’s got the experience, the momentum, and the team.
And with projects and partnerships lined up across the UK, Africa, and the Med, IKM’s push into 2025 and beyond looks
