• Can you give an insight into your background and career history which led to your current position?

The choice of my career path has been significantly influenced by my educational background, which includes a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science (MSc) in Engineering Management. These qualifications provided a strong foundation in both technical knowledge and management expertise, enabling me to excel in various roles within the Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) industry.

I’ve held key positions in business development, commercial engineering, key account management, customer relationship management, and strategy building. These diverse experiences equipped me with a unique skill set that has enabled me to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing industry.

Now, as a Key Account Manager for Fulkrum, I’m well-prepared to navigate dynamic shifts in the Oil, Gas, and Power industry, as well as emerging areas in Renewable Energy such as energy transition, carbon capture, and hydrogen solutions.

• Having an office location within the region, how did you feel the impact ADIPEC had on the region?

ADIPEC 2023 successfully united the global energy industry to address energy transition challenges. It gathered over 160,000 energy professionals, 2,200 companies, 54 key players, 30 country pavilions, 15,000 delegates, 1,600 speakers, and 350 sessions.

Considering the massive scale, it is ought to be the biggest exhibition catering to the oil & gas and energy stakeholders in recent times and showing the global impact through announcements of various ground-breaking project awards to cultivate the energy transition culture. It was a resounding success, demonstrating the global energy industry’s commitment to decarbonisation and collaboration. The event provided a valuable platform for energy leaders to share insights, showcase innovations, and form partnerships that will accelerate the energy transition and create a sustainable future for all.

• Did you meet any interesting contacts at your time at ADIPEC and what were any interesting conversations/presentations you took part in?

As silver sponsors of the EIC lounge, Fulkrum had a fantastic platform to build connections and form essential relationships in this thriving sector. Meeting potential clients and converting them into future leads is a significant outcome of ADIPEC.

Throughout the event, we had valuable discussions with key Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) personnel, specifically VP Procurement from ADNOC Refining and Senior Engineer from ADNOC Gas about ICV trends, engineering developments, and the future of the oil and gas industry amidst the energy transition. We also gained insights from EPC contractors and their impact on the GCC region, where there are over 678 energy projects worth over US$1,087 billion from 2022 to 2028.

ADIPEC’s true value lies in the connections and relationships formed during the event. Engaging with almost a hundred potential clients in upstream, midstream, and downstream operations, ADIPEC is a golden opportunity to nurture these connections into future leads. Building and maintaining client relationships in this dynamic industry is essential for future success and partnerships. ADIPEC, with its rich networking opportunities and wealth of knowledge, has reaffirmed the significance of establishing and maintaining strong client relationships in the oil and gas sector.

• What do you think sets Fulkrum apart from other competitors? 

Fulkrum specialises in vendor surveillance, third-party inspection, project expediting, and technical staffing, tailored to global client needs. With expertise in the oil and gas industry, Fulkrum effectively supports energy transition projects. Their third-party inspections enhance safety by providing experienced personnel and global industry knowledge, maintaining consistent safety standards throughout the supply chain. These services also boost project efficiency, helping asset owners manage supply chains, comply with regulations, and reduce downtime. Fulkrum’s impartial inspectors identify issues, aiding equipment maintenance and business improvement. Additionally, Fulkrum leverages oil and gas experience to support the renewable energy industry, offering comprehensive services based on their knowledge and past projects.

• Following your attendance at ADIPEC, where do you hope to see Fulkrum’s footprint grow and develop in the Middle East and Caspian region and are there any industry trends you expect to see?

After attending ADIPEC, and with the recent surge in projects within the Middle East, specifically UAE and KSA, Fulkrum will have strong opportunities to expand its footprint in the Middle East and the Caspian region. These regions are vital for the energy industry, and Fulkrum can leverage its global expertise to support various local projects.

In terms of industry trends, Fulkrum can expect to see a gradual shift towards renewable energy projects, whilst having ample work pertaining to the oil & gas projects which tends to extend its timeline until the next 6-7 years. Although there might be an increased emphasis and an upward trend on sustainability and energy transition, following COP28 in November. As digital methodologies and analytics-focused insights gain prominence in inspection and compliance protocols, they will increasingly align with Fulkrum’s established proficiency in delivering superior services in these areas.

What is the best advice you’ve been given during your career?  

I do remember receiving this amazing advice from one of my senior colleagues at a previous job, that I should always follow the simple rule of 5 which are:

• Learning is continuous, there is no end to it.
• Networking is key.
• Embrace feedback and learn from it
• Be adaptable yet resilient.
• Take ownership and stay ethical always.

They may seem simple and concise, but they have always been the pillars behind building my career and I always advise the same to people who are starting their fresh careers, as I believe it summarises the professional outlook on how you can be successful yet create the best out of it!