What is your role in the oil & gas industry and how did you come to be in the Middle East?
I am regional director, Middle East at NES Global Talent, which provides manpower solutions to the oil & gas sector worldwide. I joined the company in the UK in March 2002 and relocated to Qatar in 2006 after uncovering new business opportunities in the region, going on to set up offices and registrations in locations across the Middle East including Al Khobar in Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the UAE, Doha in Qatar and Muscat in Oman. I was also heavily involved in establishing NES Global Talent as one of the first registered staffing agencies in Iraq.
What is the most exciting trend or development in your sector?
While the Middle East has long been the world’s biggest oil and gas producing region, increased activity in Iraq and Kurdistan is breathing new life into the sector, attracting investment and creating a host of recruitment opportunities for suitably skilled candidates. The demand for engineers with the necessary expertise and both industry and region specific experience is increasing. This means it is an extremely attractive region to work in, in terms of salaries and benefits if you have the right skills and have worked in the Middle East previously.
Are you optimistic about the future of unconventionals in the Middle East?
Yes, I am optimistic. The Middle East will maintain its role as the world’s top oil producer and exporter, with conventional sources of energy remaining of primary importance. However, as domestic consumption grows, the share of oil that the region is able to export is set to decrease. The industry is looking to tap into unconventional resources and this will become an increasingly important part of the energy mix. There is evidence to suggest that the Middle East has huge unconventional potential, which should put the region at the heart of the unconventional boom in the future.
What CSR programmes is your company involved in?
In the past 12 months, our people have taken part in Movember and run marathons for Pinktober, the Lily Mae Foundation and Macmillan, while our HR Director cycled 500 miles around India. These ventures have raised over £20,000 for our chosen charities.
What are your out of office hobbies?
At the weekends I enjoy relaxing with my family. Our daughter is two and was born in Doha, Qatar. She’s now at an age where she is discovering the world around her and we enjoy cycling around local parks and along the beach. On Saturdays, I enjoy catching up on the latest drama within the English Premiership. I am an avid Manchester City supporter and love catching up on live games either at home or out with friends.
Quick Facts:
What is your favourite film?
The Man Who Would be King.
What has been your best holiday destination?
Langkawi, Malaysia.
Who is your favourite band/singer/composer?
I enjoy a varied genre of music from Johnny Cash to 90’s grunge and Indie. Noel Gallagher remains a legend and is in my top five musicians.
What is your favourite book?
The Beach.
