About Otto Candies, LLC

Otto Candies III has been a leader in the marine transportation industry for over three decades. As the CEO and Chairman of the Board at Otto Candies, LLC, Otto has been instrumental in guiding the family-owned company to its current status as a premier offshore marine transportation specialist.

With a career spanning various roles within the company, from Purchasing Director to Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer, Otto's leadership has been characterized by a commitment to excellence and innovation.

Otto's extensive experience includes overseeing the administration of the company’s Maritime Administration approved Capital Construction Fund, negotiating contracts for the construction and modification of over 20 offshore service vessels, and managing complex construction and repair contracts from inception through delivery.

His work has also involved serving as a crucial liaison during critical operations, such as oil spill remediation efforts in Valdez, Alaska, where he coordinated with the United States Coast Guard, American Bureau of Shipping, and Exxon.

In addition to his leadership at Otto Candies, Otto has played a significant role in international maritime operations, having served as President of Compañia Paraguaya de Transporte Fluvial, S.A., where he coordinated the formation and initial investments in a South American river transportation company. His extensive travels throughout South America, coupled with his negotiation of contracts of affreightment with customers across the region, underscore his global expertise.

Otto is actively involved in several professional organizations, including the Offshore Marine Service Association (OMSA), where he has served on the Board of Directors and as Chairman. His contributions to the industry are further highlighted by his involvement with the American Bureau of Shipping and the Louisiana Millennium Port Authority, where he served as Commissioner and President.

Outside of his professional life, Otto is dedicated to his community and has been actively involved in various civic and charitable organizations, including John Calvin Presbyterian Church, where he served as an ordained elder, and Cerebral Palsy of Louisiana, where he volunteered for the telethon.

Paul B. Candies II has been deeply immersed in the operations of Otto Candies, LLC, since a young age, beginning his journey in the family business at just 14 years old.

Starting in the warehouse and progressing through various roles, PB’s hands-on experience spans every aspect of the company, from cutting grass and working on the hunting camp to engaging with customers on hunting and fishing trips. His early exposure to the business provided a strong foundation, allowing him to develop a comprehensive understanding of the company’s operations.

Over the years, PB transitioned into more strategic roles, working in the office's traffic department, participating in pre-job meetings with customers, collaborating with the IT department on the transition from mainframe computers to workstations, and contributing to the safety department to enhance policies and procedures. This extensive experience across different facets of the company has equipped PB with the skills and insights necessary to lead Otto Candies, LLC, as its President.

One of PB’s greatest joys is working alongside his family, continuing the legacy of a company that has been built over generations. The pride he feels when receiving congratulations from customers on a job well done is a testament to the strong relationships and reputation the company has cultivated under his leadership.

As he works with the fourth generation of the Candies family, PB is committed to driving the company’s growth and ensuring its success well into the future.

Ryan Candies has been with Otto Candies, LLC, for 13 years. His first role at the company was as a mechanic’s helper, and he has since held various positions, including Project Coordinator, DP Assurance, and Maintenance.

Ryan attributes his qualifications for his current role as Executive Vice President to the outstanding mentors he’s had along the way, especially his father, and several other intelligent and hardworking individuals he’s worked with over the years.

Ryan deeply values the relationships he’s built at Otto Candies, considering it an absolute blessing to work alongside his family and the many incredible co-workers he’s met throughout his career. He believes that what truly exemplifies the company is not a single event but the collective effort of the team to overcome challenges and complete projects safely and effectively.

Looking to the future, Ryan is excited to navigate any challenges that may arise, whether expected or otherwise, and continue assisting clients in developing energy assets for their customers to enjoy.

Barry S. Blanchard has been the Chief Financial Officer at Otto Candies, LLC, since May 2011, bringing over 37 years of experience in accounting, including 25 years directly related to the maritime industry.

Throughout his career, Barry has held key positions as Controller and CFO, always leading the accounting department with a focus on financial analysis, forecasting, and managing relationships with the company’s banking partners.

Barry’s extensive background, which includes a degree from Nicholls State University and work towards a CPA, has been instrumental in his development as a financial leader. His role at Otto Candies, LLC, allows him the freedom to develop analytical tools that provide the Board of Directors with crucial information for making strategic decisions.

Barry values the opportunity to make a significant impact, whether through his financial analysis or by building strong relationships in international markets like Brazil, where his efforts have contributed to the company’s success.

Barry is proud of the solid reputation that Otto Candies, LLC, holds within the industry, known for its reliability and resilience through market cycles. Looking to the future, he is excited about the company’s potential for growth and diversification into new markets, including wind energy, and the opportunity to re-enter markets like Brazil.

Barry believes that this diversification is key to the company’s continued success.

Brett Candies has been with Otto Candies, LLC, for 33 years. He started as a duck camp guide and has since worked in Traffic, HR, and Marketing. Throughout his time at the company, the dedication of employees is what stands out to him the most.

Kelly Candies has been a dedicated member of Otto Candies, LLC, for over 29 years. He began his career in the traffic department and gained extensive experience working in the maintenance department, where he observed dry dockings, repairs, and new construction projects.

Kelly also contributed to the company by working on insurance and contracts before transitioning to his current role as Property Manager, a position he has held for over a decade.

A graduate of Nicholls State University with a degree in finance, Kelly also played baseball during his time at Nicholls. His passion for the company is rooted in his family’s involvement, and he finds great excitement in working alongside them. Looking ahead, Kelly is eager to see the next generation step into the business and help pioneer new frontiers.

Nicki M. Candies has served as the Director of Public Relations and Regulatory Affairs at Otto Candies, LLC, since January 1992. In this role, she is responsible for maintaining regulatory compliance for the privately held international marine transportation company, which employs over 300 people and operates vessels globally. Nicki also oversees safety and ongoing training for marine employees and administers the company’s comprehensive benefits package.

Nicki's initiatives have had a significant impact on the company's bottom line. She instituted a training and reporting program that resulted in a $500,000 savings in insurance premiums in its first year, with continued premium savings each year since. Her leadership extends to her role as Chair of the Corporate Giving Committee, where she influences the company’s philanthropic efforts.

Nicki holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations from the University of Louisiana - Lafayette and a Master of Business Administration from Loyola University of New Orleans.

Nicki’s commitment to civic and charitable causes is evident through her involvement with numerous organizations, including the Delta Delta Delta Sorority, where she has served as President of the New Orleans Alumnae Chapter, the American Cancer Society, Lighthouse Louisiana, and the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Louisiana.

Her contributions have been recognized with several awards, including the St. Elizabeth’s Guild “Volunteer Activist” Award and the American Cancer Society Belles and Beaus Honoree.

Nicki’s dedication to her profession and community exemplifies the values of leadership, service, and excellence.

Sean Candies has been with Otto Candies, LLC, for 11 years, bringing over a decade of industry experience to his role as Operations Manager. He began his career at the company as a Human Resources Assistant and has since built a strong foundation of expertise, supported by an MBA from Nicholls State University.

Sean values the unique opportunity to work alongside his family and finds it a blessing to be part of a company where a commitment to safety and personal relationships with mariners extends beyond simple business interactions. Looking to the future, Sean is excited to face the challenges of the evolving energy industry and explore new ways the company can address those needs.

Sid Candies has been a dedicated member of the Otto Candies, LLC, team since January 1992, marking over three decades of continuous service. As the Maintenance Director, Sid has played a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation and upkeep of the company’s fleet and facilities.

While he briefly worked in the traffic department, his passion and expertise have always been rooted in maintenance, where he has spent the majority of his career.

Sid takes immense pride in working for the company his grandfather founded and his father helped build. For him, the opportunity to contribute to the family legacy is both a privilege and a source of personal fulfillment. Working closely with his siblings and cousins, Sid values the strong commitment to family that defines Otto Candies, LLC. This dedication to family extends to the long-term relationships the company has fostered with its employees, creating a supportive and loyal workforce.

Sid’s role as Maintenance Director is not just a job; it’s a continuation of a family tradition and a testament to the enduring values that have guided Otto Candies, LLC, for generations.

Lisa Blanchard has been a dedicated member of Otto Candies, LLC since 2022, bringing over 10 years of progressive Human Resources experience to her role as Director of Human Resources.

With a strong background in benefits administration, employee relations, and policy development, Lisa is well-equipped to oversee the company's HR functions, including payroll, benefits management, employee relations, and regulatory compliance. Her expertise in managing company-wide leave programs, such as FMLA, disability, and ADA accommodations, ensures that all employees are supported.

Lisa finds great fulfillment in working for an organization that prioritizes employee well-being. She enjoys being part of a company that actively supports its employees' career journeys and is committed to creating a positive impact.

Looking ahead, Lisa is excited about Otto Candies' continuous growth and innovation. She sees the company adapting to new industry challenges while maintaining its core values, making her confident in its long-term success. Lisa is proud to be part of a forward-thinking company that invests in both its people and its future.

Shane Candies serves as the Director of Sales and Marketing at Otto Candies, LLC, bringing a rich blend of sales expertise and project management acumen that has been pivotal to the company's growth and innovation. Shane’s career journey, marked by strategic roles in both the maritime and electrical industries, laid a strong foundation for his impact at Otto Candies.

Before joining Otto Candies, Shane honed his technical and leadership skills in positions that bridged engineering and client engagement. From 1986 to 1992, he worked as an Electrical Project Manager on the U.S. Coast Guard’s Island Class Control Vessels at Bollinger Shipyards. This role sharpened his project oversight capabilities and his ability to deliver on high-stakes projects, a skill set he would later bring to Otto Candies.

Following this, Shane served as the Gulf of Mexico Sales Manager for Sperry Marine from 1992 to 2001. In this role, he directed regional sales strategies and cultivated valuable industry partnerships that extended his influence and deepened his knowledge of maritime operations. Shane’s background across diverse roles provided him with a holistic view of the industry, which he has since leveraged to support Otto Candies’ mission of excellence in offshore services. His track record of commitment and strategic insight continues to drive forward the company’s vision and success.

A graduate of the University of Kentucky, Dianna Miller has been a vital member of Otto Candies, LLC for over 20 years. She brings our team more than 35 years of experience in the transportation industry.

In her role as Director of Maritime Personnel, she strategically oversees the direction of the company’s maritime workforce. Over the years, she has honed her skills in both the marine and highway transportation sectors, developing comprehensive safety programs and HR initiatives across multiple organizations.

Her expertise in regulatory compliance, workforce planning, and the development of training and safety initiatives plays a critical role in building a highly skilled workforce and ensuring the company’s operational success.

Driven by her core values of faith, family, character and integrity, Dianna’s approach aligns perfectly with Otto Candies’ family-oriented work environment. She is dedicated to developing skilled mariners and continuously enhancing the company’s operational effectiveness.

Dale Price has been with Otto Candies, LLC, since May 2001, bringing over two decades of experience to his role as HSSE (Health, Safety, Security, and Environmental) Manager. He began his career at Otto Candies as an ISM Administrator and Human Resources Assistant, gradually advancing through the organization by taking on increasing responsibilities in compliance and safety.

Before joining Otto Candies, Dale’s career path included 6 years of service in the United States Marine Corps, followed by earning a bachelor’s degree and an MBA from Nicholls State University. He then spent 2 years at Edison Chouest Offshore before making the move to Otto Candies. He has also completed the Marine Safety, Quality & Environmental (SQE) Internal Auditor Training Course provided by the American Bureau of Shipping.

Dale is highly qualified in his current role, with over 23 years of experience overseeing compliance with the company’s Safety Management System (SMS) and the ISM Code, and having performed more than 300 internal vessel audits. His dedication to safety and his thorough understanding of industry standards make him an invaluable asset to the team.
One of the things Dale values most about working at Otto Candies is the trust and support he receives from company owners, which allows him to make prudent decisions to ensure a safe work environment for all mariners. He appreciates how the company’s leadership sets a positive example by treating everyone with respect and leading by example.

Reflecting on his time with the company, Dale admires the deep respect that every member of the Otto Candies family holds for the company’s namesake, Mr. Otto Candies, who founded the company in 1942. He finds it inspiring to see a family-owned business achieve success while staying true to its roots.

Kay Templet has been a valued team member at Otto Candies, LLC, for over 23 years. Beginning as a Senior Accountant at the company, she now serves as Controller, where she oversees key financial functions, including reporting, compliance, and audit coordination.

With a CPA license and 40 years of experience in accounting, Kay’s background includes roles at major corporations like Shell and LL&E Inc., as well as positions in revenue accounting, financial reporting, and audit liaison work. Her extensive expertise spans both corporate environments and privately held companies, and she plays a vital role in ensuring the company’s financial integrity and strategic growth.

Kay finds great fulfillment in the respect and trust she has earned at Otto Candies, appreciating the company’s ability to adapt and simplify processes while maintaining a culture of integrity and perseverance. After spending the early part of her career in large corporate settings, Kay values the agility and direct approach that Otto Candies embodies.

Looking ahead, Kay is excited about the company’s current phase of rapid change. She is eager to be part of the new challenges and possibilities that lie ahead, confident in the company's ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic industry.

Devin represents the next chapter of his family’s legacy at Otto Candies, LLC, where he serves as a Project Engineer, supporting the Engineering Technical Manager.

He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering from Louisiana Tech University. Before joining Otto Candies in 2023, Devin worked as a quality engineer at John Deere Thibodaux.

He is an active member of the Louisiana Engineering Society as an Engineering Intern and is dedicated to preserving Louisiana’s wetlands and wildlife through his involvement with the Coastal Conservation Association, Ducks Unlimited, and Delta Waterfowl.

Otto Candies, IV is a dedicated business development and operations specialist with a strong background in the maritime and offshore energy sectors. Currently serving as the Business Development and Operations Manager at Otto Candies, LLC, Otto leads key initiatives that drive commercial growth and operational efficiency across the Gulf of Mexico and U.S. Northeast. With a focus on turnkey solutions for offshore energy, Otto spearheads negotiations with strategic partners and supports day-to-day operations and maintenance of offshore assets.

Otto's journey in the maritime industry began with an internship at Otto Candies, LLC, where he gained invaluable early exposure to offshore operations. During this time, he worked closely with company leadership and various departments, participating in dynamic positioning (DP) operations analysis and spending significant time at the company’s shipyard while the M/V Paul Candies was being built. This hands-on experience gave Otto a deep appreciation for the company’s vessels and a comprehensive understanding of how they operate.

In 2023, Otto decided to return to the company, building on his previous work and leveraging his experience to take on a leadership role. Now, as Business Development and Operations Manager, Otto applies the operational insights and industry knowledge he gained earlier in his career to manage offshore assets and ensure operational efficiency. Excited to be a part of his family’s company, which has been in business since 1942, Otto builds on the legacy started by his great-grandfather and carried on through three generations. As a member of the fourth generation, Otto is passionate about the future, striving to strengthen the company’s legacy while fostering growth and ingenuity for the next four generations. His ability to bridge his early hands-on experiences with strategic leadership has enabled him to effectively drive both commercial growth and technical performance for the company.

Prior to rejoining Otto Candies, Otto held the role of Southeast Business Development Specialist at Crowley Wind Services. In this position, he was instrumental in identifying customer requirements, managing commercial proposals, and building relationships with key stakeholders to advance offshore wind initiatives in the Gulf of Mexico and Mid-Atlantic regions. As part of Crowley’s New Energy Offshore Wind Team, Otto also played a pivotal role in developing RFPs and collaborating with government organizations to shape business models for offshore wind farm operations.

In addition to his current role, Otto has cultivated a well-rounded background with extensive experience in operations and logistics. During his internship at Edison Chouest Offshore, Otto gained hands-on experience across multiple divisions of the company, working on developing deck loadout plans, boat terminal logistics, and port slip management for major energy companies such as BP and Shell. This exposure provided Otto with a comprehensive understanding of the operations that drive offshore logistics. Separately, during internships at NFI Industries and C.H. Robinson, Otto developed strong skills in customer account management, pricing, and logistics operations, where he was responsible for building and monitoring loads, as well as acting as a liaison to ensure seamless logistics solutions for clients.

Beyond professional accomplishments, Otto is deeply committed to fostering economic growth in the Greater New Orleans (GNO) region. As a member of the NextGen Council at GNO Inc., he contributes to efforts that empower emerging leaders and stimulate regional development. Additionally, Otto serves on the South Louisiana Economic Council’s Emerging Energy Task Force, working to position South Louisiana as a leader in the emerging energy industries, while maintaining the region’s strong foundation in oil and gas through an integrated energy strategy.

Otto holds a Bachelor of Science in Management with a concentration in Maritime Studies from Nicholls State University. Currently, he is pursuing an Executive MBA through Nicholls State’s program to further strengthen his leadership and strategic business skills. His diverse experience and commitment to innovation in the offshore energy sector make him a key figure in driving sustainable growth and operational excellence within his industry.