Monish Nagala Naidu
Maritime Service Leader | LSA & MES Operations | Operations Excellence Europe & Middle East
Dubai
Summary
VIKING-Certified Maritime Service Leader with 11+ years of progressive responsibility in Life-Saving Appliances (LSA) and Marine Evacuation Systems operations across 12+ countries in Europe and the Middle East. Proven track record in leading complex service operations and large-scale inspections with 100% SOLAS and Flag State compliance, zero operational delays, and uncompromising safety standards. Demonstrated leadership in coordinating teams, optimizing resources, and strengthening safety governance—bringing the operational oversight, commercial awareness, and strategic focus required to successfully lead Service Centre operations.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
5
5
Certifications
6
6
Languages
Work History
Regional Field Service Engineer
Viking Life Saving Equipment - APS
01.2020 - Current
- Liferaft Servicing: "Authorized by VIKING Life-Saving Equipment to perform annual and 30-month extended service (S30) on inflatable liferafts, ensuring full compliance with IMO and SOLAS regulations".
- Davit-Launched Systems: Conduct every 2-year load testing and inspection of VIKING 35 & 39 DKF+ davit-launched liferafts, utilizing iPad-based digital checklists to ensure 100% documentation accuracy and traceability.
- Technical Reporting: "Issued official re-inspection certificates and managed detailed service logbooks for VIKING LSA equipment, facilitating successful Port State Control (PSC) inspections.
- Equipment: S30 Liferafts, DKF+ Davit-Launched Rafts, Viking Evacuation Systems (VES), Hydrostatic Release Units (HRU).
- Compliance: SOLAS III/20.11, IMO Resolution A.761(18), Class Society Audits (DNV, Lloyd’s).
- Processes: Gas Inflation Stress Test (GI), Necessary Additional Pressure Test (NAP), Floor Seam Test (FS)
- Deployment & Testing: "Managed the annual and 6-yearly deployment testing of VIKING VEC/VECS chutes and mini-slide systems, ensuring inflation and deployment occurred within strict SOLAS/IMO time requirements."
- Mechanical Overhaul: "Disassembled and serviced MES winches, brake systems, and bowsing lines, performing critical lubrication and parts replacement to prevent system failure during emergency evacuation."
- Large-Capacity Liferafts: "Certified to service and repack high-capacity 100-150 person liferafts integrated into MES units, including the inspection of nitrogen/CO2 inflation cylinders and high-pressure hoses."
- Structural Integrity: "Conducted GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) repairs and seal inspections on MES stowage housings to prevent water ingress and corrosion in harsh marine environments."
- System Upgrades: "Executed fleet-wide retrofitting of Hydrostatic Release Units and upgraded release cables for VIKING evacuation systems, ensuring 100% operational readiness for passenger ferry clients."
- System Types: Vertical Chutes, Inclined Slides, Dual-Chute Systems, and Mini-Slides.
- Compliance: IMO Resolution A.689(17), SOLAS Chapter III, and EU Marine Equipment Directive (MED).
- Technical Tasks: Winch brake testing, Cylinder weighing, Vacuum packing, and Chute fabric integrity inspections.
Senior Field Service Engineer
Viking Life Saving Equipment - APS
09.2017 - 01.2020
- Supported new team members during their onboarding process, sharing insights gained from years of experience in regional field services as a mentor.
- Improved overall efficiency of operations by assisting with inventory management, coordinating logistics, and tracking parts usage accurately.
- Maintained detailed records of all service activities, facilitating accurate documentation for future reference and analysis.
- Collaborated with sales teams to provide technical expertise during product demonstrations, resulting in increased sales opportunities.
- Fostered a culture of continuous improvement within the team by encouraging open communication channels and promoting an environment that values constructive feedback.
- Assisted with cost reduction initiatives by identifying inefficiencies within current systems/processes while suggesting innovative solutions.
- Reduced downtime for clients by providing timely and efficient field service support, resolving complex technical issues.
- Inspected, evaluated and serviced LSA and PPE
Field Service Engineer
Viking Life Saving Equipment - APS
03.2015 - 09.2017
- Maritime Safety & LSA/MES Operations
- Inspections, Commissioning & Troubleshooting
- Team Leadership & Performance Management
- Operational Efficiency & Lean Implementation
- Regulatory Compliance & QHSE Standards
- Customer & Stakeholder Engagement
- Inventory & Resource Management
- SAP & Microsoft Office Proficiency
Manufacturing Engineer
WABCO INDIA LTD
08.2013 - 03.2015
- Conducted root cause analysis on defective products, leading to targeted improvements in manufacturing processes.
- Identified problems and specific resolutions to fix defective, damaged, or malfunctioning parts, assemblies, equipment and systems.
- Optimized assembly line layouts to maximize productivity and improve overall workflow efficiency.
- Increased capacity utilization by identifying bottlenecks within the production process and implementing targeted improvements.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to design and introduce new product lines, meeting market demands and diversifying company portfolio.
- Engaged in continuous improvement efforts, regularly reviewing and refining processes for greater efficiency and effectiveness.
Engineer
India Japan Lighting Ltd
03.2011 - 07.2013
- Developed technical documentation, including standard operating procedures, work instructions, and engineering drawings to support manufacturing operations.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop innovative solutions for complex engineering challenges.
- Trained and mentored junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development within the team.
- Led Kaizen events focused on continuous improvement within various areas of the manufacturing environment.
- Improved manufacturing efficiency by streamlining production processes and implementing lean methodologies.
- Engaged in continuous improvement efforts, regularly reviewing and refining processes for greater efficiency and effectiveness.
Education
Bachelor of Engineering - Mechatronics
SRM University
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India 04.2001 -
Skills
SAP, SP3
Certification
DKR/IBA life rafts without remote release system: Up to 50 persons
Timeline
Regional Field Service Engineer
Viking Life Saving Equipment - APS
01.2020 - Current
Senior Field Service Engineer
Viking Life Saving Equipment - APS
09.2017 - 01.2020
Field Service Engineer
Viking Life Saving Equipment - APS
03.2015 - 09.2017
Manufacturing Engineer
WABCO INDIA LTD
08.2013 - 03.2015
Engineer
India Japan Lighting Ltd
03.2011 - 07.2013
Bachelor of Engineering - Mechatronics
SRM University
04.2001 -
NOTED ACHIEVEMENTS WORLDWIDE
- Service AreaScope & UnitsKey Responsibilities & AchievementsLife Rafts8,300+ throw-overboard and davit-launched life rafts (KF, DKF, DKF+, DKFS, MOR, UK, CL, UKL, UKSL, UKCL, K, DK, DK+, DKS) up to 50-person capacityLed inspections and servicing across multiple regions; ensured operational readiness, safety compliance, and service excellenceMarine Evacuation Systems (MES)400 units (VEDS, Dual Slide, VEDC, Dual Chute, VEC PLUS, VES-DD, VEMC, Mini Chute, SBS, Direct Boarding, Mini Slide, VAS, SES-2A)Managed servicing, operational demonstrations, and IMO-compliant crew training; ensured reliable deployment and complianceVIKING S30 Life Rafts3,500 units (sizes 6–35 persons)Oversaw inspection and servicing; implemented extended 30-month service intervals while maintaining safety, compliance, and operational efficiency
SURVEY CLASS APPROVAL ACHIEVEMENTS
- ABS SERVICE CERTIFICATE NO: 23-6150673-A
- ABS Authorization(s) LSA, MES, MFS, LBS from Equipment Manufacturers and Flag Administrations.
OCCUPATIONAL CHRONICLE
Key Responsibilities & Achievements:
- Leadership & Team Management:
Supervised and led a team for servicing life rafts, MES, MFS, and LBS equipment.
Conducted toolbox talks, risk assessments, and maintained 5S-compliant workshop standards to promote safety culture.
Coordinated cross-functional teams for installation and servicing projects, optimizing logistics and minimizing downtime. - Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) & Marine Evacuation Systems (MES):
Led inspections, servicing, and repairs of standard and VIKING S30 life rafts, including painting, markings, door rubber assembly, suspension, and floor seam checks.
Conducted air leak, inflation, and pressure tests to ensure operational readiness.
Performed davit launch load testing, operational demonstrations, and crew training for all LSA and MES equipment.
Oversaw S30 life raft servicing per annual onboard inspections and 30-month station servicing requirements. - Marine Fire Systems (MFS):
Conducted routine and preventive maintenance of CO₂, foam, dry chemical, and water mist systems.
Diagnosed and resolved complex technical issues in fire detection and alarm systems, ensuring minimal vessel downtime. - Compliance & Regulatory Adherence:
Maintained 100% compliance with SOLAS, IMO, FSS Code, Class Society audits (DNV, Lloyd’s), and internal safety standards.
Ensured proper documentation for service reports, certifications, and job completion records for vessel captains and management.
Conducted weekly internal and external audits, maintaining operational and regulatory excellence. - Operational Excellence:
Managed service projects from initial client contact through final sign-off, ensuring budget and schedule adherence.
Generated month-end reports of work orders completed, service metrics, and resource utilization.
Ensured workplace safety, environmental compliance, and the wellbeing of all team members. - Additional Responsibilities:
Maintained inventory, spare parts, and equipment readiness for service operations.
Performed emergency equipment inspections, including food, water, first aid kits, and flares.
Provided technical guidance and mentoring to junior service engineers and technicians.
Supported management with ad-hoc operational tasks as required.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
- Life Saving Appliances |Marine Evacuation System
- Member of the Flying Squad – MES, a rapid-deployment technical team handling urgent global MES service requirements. Performed emergency repairs, commissioning, and operational checks for various MES models.
- Supported shipowners and service stations with immediate technical solutions to maintain vessel safety compliance.
- Ensured quick turnaround times with high accuracy, improving customer satisfaction and vessel readiness.
- Strong leadership in coordinating multicultural teams across regions
- Skilled in motivating staff, delegating tasks, and ensuring accountability
- Delivered consistent top-quality service in line with international standards
- Commitment to safety, compliance, and continuous improvement
DECLARATION
The above information furnished are true to the best of my knowledge and belief. Monish Nagala Naidu
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
- Active participant in the Employee Involvement Survey Board, providing feedback and recommendations to enhance workplace culture and processes.
- Lead member of the Fun Committee, organizing team-building and social activities to boost morale and cohesion.
- Participated in company cricket matches twice, promoting teamwork, collaboration, and a healthy competitive spirit.
Training & Professional Development
Here’s your training and professional development section converted into a clean, CV-ready table for maximum readability and impact:
Training / CertificationYear(s)LocationFocus / HighlightsVIKING Standard & Davit-Launched Life Rafts2015, 2018, 2022Esbjerg, Denmark & ThailandInspection, servicing, deployment procedures, operational readinessVIKING S30 Life Rafts2015, 2018, 2022Esbjerg, Denmark & ThailandExtended service interval (up to 30 months), hermetically sealed membrane, 6–35 persons, throw-overboard & davit-launched raftsMES Chute2015, 2016, 2019, 2024Estonia, DenmarkInstallation, inspection, servicing, crew training, operational demonstrationsMES Slide2015, 2018, 2022EstoniaHigh-capacity deployment, crew evacuation procedures, system handlingMES Mini Slide2016, 2019, 2023EstoniaInstallation, servicing, operational readiness, safety complianceMES Single Slide2017, 2019, 2022EstoniaDeployment, operational demonstrations, SOLAS complianceMarine Fire System (MFS)2018ThailandPractical training for electricians, mechanics, system fitters, fire system operation & maintenance