Well-known industry figure Keith Bainbridge is jumping ship from his role as head of shipbroker RS Platou’s LNG arm to go it alone as a consultant.

In an industry circular, Platou described Bainbridge’s role in establishing and developing the LNG segment for the company as “invaluable”. Sources said his move would be a loss for the company.

Bainbridge, who has at times been famously outspoken in his views on the industry, joined Platou in September 2009 after leaving as head of Clarksons LNG Shipping Solutions to grow a new London office for the Norwegian broker.