Tell us about your working experience at Essar.
I joined Essar in 2011, when we purchased the Stanlow Refinery. At the start of this time I was leading the business unit managing the production of Industrial Alcohols and all of the Essar UK Chemicals Logistics operations. I was then asked to also take on the responsibility for the Site Utilities and H2S (sulphurs units). In 2016 I was asked to take the lead is setting up an Infrastructure Department, managing the Tranmere Oil Import and Stanlow Road Terminals, Cross Country Pipelines, Marine, Refinery Interconnecting Pipelines and Tankage Capex and Maintenance Management. The department has since expanded to take on Refinery Mass Balance as well.
What inspired you to join the oil and gas sector?
As a young engineer, I was challenged to think about how we can achieve a sustainable future, how do you balance the needs of the environment, with the demands of modern living. We want modern materials, access to cheap and efficient fuels and technologies. I decided the best way for me to influence this was to get involved and ensure I did my bit to improve efficiency and minimise the impact on the environment.
What do you like the most about your job? What is the most challenging part?
I love my job. Each day is different, I can be involved with understanding the needs of marketing,and how to improve the customer experience. I can be looking at how we innovate in tankage maintenance – be that use of robots or drones. Most of all I enjoy seeing the impact on others when you empower them to deliver their ideas and help their thoughts become realised.
What is your message for young girls aspiring to join the Oil and Gas sector?
It’s a fabulous place to work. It can be hard work, it can be fast paced, there are certainly considerable risks that must be managed, but it is also rewarding and it is an industry where you can make a difference.
Is there a woman who has been your inspiration in life or at work?
My mother! As a young girl growing up, my Dad was often at sea for long periods of time, leaving myself, my Mum and younger sister at home. My mum, didn’t drive a car but that was probably the only thing she didn’t drive! She did her teaching degree whist I was in primary school, before branching into the National Health Service, she gave me my passion for learning, and for making a difference. In helping others to go on to achieve, she showed me that the way towards personal fulfilment was through the help and support you give to others rather than focussing solely on what you can achieve.
Tracy Hughes,
Infrastructure Manager, Essar Oil UK
Meet Essar’s Everyday Champions