Blog: Harry Pearce, Ambrey Analytics

The maritime search and rescue (SAR) sector faces unique challenges, often operating under difficult circumstances with finite resources and in high-risk waters. For Harry Pearce, Group Director of Applied Intelligence at Ambrey Analytics, overcoming these challenges requires real-time intelligence and operational precision. 

“Our mandate is to deliver a timely response to these challenges,” Harry said. “By working closely with seafarers, we advocate for practical solutions within fleet-wide standard operating procedures, including stress-testing realistic crisis situations and rescue protocols. Our collaboration with the IMRF community has ambitious plans to foster innovation and amplify SAR effectiveness worldwide.” 

Ambrey Analytics, a leading provider of maritime risk management solutions, delivers intelligence-led services that empower shipowners, operators, and insurers to navigate an increasingly dynamic maritime environment. At the core of its offerings is Sentinel, a cutting-edge solution providing threat identification and risk analysis directly within shipboard systems. 

“Sentinel draws upon real-time, globally standardised intelligence to deliver actionable insights at scale,” Harry explained. “This product helps owners and operators make informed decisions aligned with their obligations and goals.” 

The company’s Guardian programme complements Sentinel by offering gap analysis, route optimisation and loss prevention to ensure vessels are equipped for emergencies, including mass rescue operations. “Our work ensures crew preparedness and a proportionate, compliant response that keeps risk to the lowest acceptable level for the lifetime of a fixture.” 

Ambrey’s expertise in maritime security has significant implications for SAR operations. By leveraging geospatial modelling and dynamic threat analysis, the company can equip SAR teams with insights to optimise response times and protocols.  

“An ability to cohere an effective response to the risks seafarers face was recognised by the Master of MARLIN LUANDA at the 2024 IMO Bravery Awards,” Harry noted. “By measuring the efficacy of response practices, Ambrey has refined its capabilities in one theatre and scaled them globally.” 

Another recent SAR operation off the coast of Libya exemplified this approach. Ambrey’s networked reporting identified the best-suited vessels for rescue and provided tailored legal and logistical advice to crews navigating the situation. 

For Harry, real-time intelligence is crucial to successful SAR operations. 

“The right information in the right hands ensures vessels, aircraft, and surveillance systems are deployed efficiently – where they are needed and most effectual,” Harry explained. “Clear communication builds trust, while collaboration builds capacity. Aligning with international maritime laws strengthens accountability and ensures timely, effective interventions that save lives.” 

Since its inception in 2010, Ambrey has maintained its commitment to quality, innovation and trust despite rapid growth. 

“To ensure the highest levels of security, we’ve built robust protections into our custom content management and reporting system, which is backed by ISO 27001:2022 accreditation,” Harry said. “This has built confidence among partners, encouraging the reporting of critical details that might otherwise remain undisclosed.” 

“By leveraging these insights, we can provide robust intelligence while raising awareness of the challenges faced by seafarers,” Harry added. 

As a member of the IMRF, Ambrey is dedicated to supporting the maritime SAR community. 

“Safeguarding seafarers lies at the heart of our mission,” Harry concluded. “Our partnership with IMRF combines SAR expertise with operational excellence to enhance Mass Rescue Operations. By harnessing deep ocean connectivity and networked insights, we aim to improve early warning, crew preparedness, and resource deployment – a vision shared with IMRF for a safer maritime future.”