Offshore vessel and VLCC owner SD Standard Drilling is stepping up its diversification drive with two key new hires.

The Oslo-listed company, owned by tycoon Oystein Stray Spetalen, has announced it will work with former John Fredriksen lieutenant Espen Westeren. Fearnley Securities head of research Espen Landmark Fjermestad has been appointed head of investment.

The partnership with investment professional Westeren will strengthen Standard Drilling's investment and analysis capabilities, the company said.