3. VP Career Profile (Roles)
• Nottingham University: BSc Chemical Engineering
• Courtaulds Ltd (now Akzo Nobel): Process Engineer> Senior Process Engineer
• Procter and Gamble: Research Executive
• Exxon Chemicals (and Nalco Exxon JV): Senior Researcher> Strategic Study, Italy> North
Sea Operations Manager> Global Strategic Manager> EAME Manager> Global Account
Manager/Business Systems Project Manager> Business Development Manager
• Nalco/GDF Suez: General Manager, Europe/Africa/Middle East/FSU
• V. Ships: MD, Europe/Africa/Asia
• Cheltenham Ladies’ College: Head of Professional Guidance
• Preng & Associates: Executive Search Consultant
• Other: Career Coach, MBA/EMBA; Board roles (Nottingham University, Regent’s
University, MyBigCareer, Focus Expatriates)
4. Reflections
• Take control of your own career
• Careers are not straight lines
• Your early career doesn’t necessarily reflect your future
• It’s OK to take risks and to make mistakes but learn from them
• An international assignment(s) can be a plus and what happens if you turn them down
• Always think 2 jobs ahead
• Mentors and Sponsors
• Networking
• Be open to opportunities
• Start working early with recruiters/search consultants
• Keep the CV updated with specific achievements and stay up to date with the jobs market
• LinkedIn and Social media
