Sophie is currently pursuing a BSc in Economics, studying a broad range of topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and international trade. These areas are helping Sophie sharpen her analytical thinking, quantitative analysis, and problem-solving skills—key strengths she is keen to apply during her time at Mabanaft.
“I am learning how economic principles drive decision-making in industries like energy and commodities, making this internship at Mabanaft an incredible opportunity to apply my academic insights in a global business environment,” Sophie shared.
With a long-term goal of working in financial services, Sophie is excited to deepen her understanding of risk management and sustainability, particularly regarding Mabanaft’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
She added: “I am excited to learn more about how sustainability influences decision-making at Mabanaft.”
Sophie eagerly anticipates enhancing her strategic thinking while gaining firsthand experience in risk management and supply operations, which will better prepare her for a future career in finance.
Faris is currently studying Accounting and Finance, a course that allows him to focus on both fields while also exploring areas such as economics and computing. His studies so far have provided a solid foundation in financial and accounting principles, equipping him for a career in investment banking or financial markets. Faris is particularly drawn to the energy and natural resources sectors, where financial markets are closely tied to global movements.
“I aim to work in banking, particularly in financial markets, and this internship at Mabanaft gives me the chance to understand the financial and operational dynamics of a global industry,” Faris explained.
Faris is eager to enhance his operational knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of risk management and forecasting, all of which will be invaluable for his career aspirations.
He added: “This experience will help me bridge the gap between my academic studies and real-world application, preparing me for a future in banking.”
Mabanaft aims to provide these talented undergraduates with practical industry experience and to gain fresh perspectives and innovative ideas from the next generation of professionals. A spokesperson commented: “We are excited to support their development and look forward to seeing the contributions they will make during their time with us.”
It is always exciting to hear the thoughts and experiences of the next generation entering the energy sector and you can hear more from those already in the sector in our conversation with the next generation here.
Industry round-up
Andrew Mochrie has joined WCF Ltd as Chief Operating Officer.
Jo Ritzema, Executive Chair for WCF Ltd commented: “We love promoting people into new roles, but sometimes the stars are perfectly aligned to bring in a fresh mindset and set of skills. We are all really excited to have Andy on our team.
“To facilitate Andy’s succession onto the Board, Phil Murray has moved into the role of Chief Executive, and I am moving to the full time role of Executive Chair of the Board with responsibility for strategic development and re-building our acquisition pipeline.”
Lynn Casson has started a new role as Senior Business Implementation Analyst at C.D.S. COMPUTER DESIGN SYSTEMS LIMITED and thanked the team for a warm welcome.
Gordon Wallis has started a new position as Head of Marketing & Communications at Your NRG and commented: “I’m grateful for the continued support of my colleagues and the leadership team, and I look forward to taking on this new role and contributing to the ongoing success of the company.”
Oliver Nightingale-Smith has started a new position as Consultant at Portland Analytics
Chris Barton has been promoted to Hytek (GB) Ltd Technical Office Manager. This decision enables Andrew Olive, Technical & Projects Director, to concentrate on leading projects and product research and development. Chris will manage a team of five, supported by Andrew.
Chris has been with Hytek 16 years, having joined in a product support role in Jan 2008. Andrew commented: “Chris has worked his way up in various product and technical roles and we are delighted to have Chris in a more senior position, sharing his knowledge and passion to the Hytek team.”
Mabanaft has welcomed Saskia Weis as Head of B2B. With over a decade of experience at Shell, Saskia brings to her new role a wealth of knowledge and expertise in strategy, sales, and marketing across various sectors.
In her most recent role at Shell, Saskia consulted the executive committee on critical issues such as sectoral decarbonisation, hydrogen and ammonia, and trading. She also has extensive experience in key account management in north-western Europe.
Saskia will be responsible for leading B2B sales activities in the Marine, Aviation, and Wholesale sectors.
Stanlow Terminals has appointed Timothy Suenson-Thorp as New Energies Project Development Manager.
Tim has 14 years of experience in the energy transition and oil and gas industries and will be accountable for developing the energy transition infrastructure projects at the Stanlow and Tranmere sites, with a focus on expanding the carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) services, low carbon transition fuels and sustainable aviation fuels vital infrastructure.
Jim Williams has shared his excitement at starting a new job at Otodata Inc. as UK & Ireland Country Manager. Managing distributor relationships, utilising tank monitor technology to optimise fuel deliveries, Jim will be implementing strategies to drive business growth.
Kevin Jackson has moved to a new position as Fuel Card Director for Greenarc
Paul Boulton has moved to the role of Fuel Card Sales Manager at Certas Energy
At Watson Fuels, Vincenzo Aguda has a new role as Head of Domestic and Heating Services UK and Ami Fulbrook has started a new position as Business Development Manager.
Essar Energy Transition (EET) has appointed Ruth Herbert as Managing Director, Business Development and Strategic Initiatives. Ruth will lead the development and execution of strategic initiatives to support EET’s long-term growth objectives.
Ruth brings with her over 15 years of energy industry experience, most recently as Chief Executive of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association, and has extensive UK Government experience.
EET Fuels has also welcomed Naresh Nayyar, a seasoned expert in oil and gas market development, back to the Company’s Board of Directors as Non-Executive Director.
Leading low-carbon hydrogen developer Hygen has made two new senior hires as it looks to expand its portfolio of green hydrogen facilities.
Kevin Selleslags was recently appointed as Hygen’s new CEO, while Nick Bradford has been named as the firm’s Chief Operating Officer.
Jordan Townsend has joined OilMaxx as Business Development Manager
Layth Shaw has been promoted to Sales Director at Rock Oil
Image supplied by WCF
