Russell's Story
Working in the fossil fuel industry
I have always been fascinated by the natural world. I studied natural sciences and economics at secondary school and went on to take marine biology at Swansea University, ultimately graduating with a degree in. geology. This was at a time when the fossil fuel companies needed the skills to understand where and how to explore for oil and gas successfully.
I quickly became an ‘integrator’ of the technical, commercial, environmental, and social aspects of what was required to find and develop oil and gas projects, in a variety of engineering, projects, and commercial roles.
I had an early trauma as I survived being shot in Pakistan during my first year with BP while doing geological field work! There followed several successful postings as a project leader to Australia, Alaska, Egypt and Indonesia (1986 – 2014).
I led the North Sea Power project to electrify and decarbonize all BP’s production operations in the North Sea, presented to John Browne, CEO (in 2000). It felt important to be making a difference to the lives of the people in the places around the world where these projects were located. I felt it was more rewarding to see successful outcomes for other people and nature, than for me, or for the BP business.
When I realised it was time to leave
At the age of 60, after almost 40 years at BP, I felt financially secure. The new ‘Re-invent’ BP and my succession plans were in place to support a shift to renewable and lower carbon projects. I felt that these should sustain a legacy of major capital project selection and delivery at BP based on more than just economic profitability measures; including a range of practical, social, environmental, and sustainability factors.
After a year of reflection, concentrating on connection with nature, family, friends, and self, some very interesting for-profit and not-for- profit consulting opportunities began to emerge from admired and trusted people, companies and organizations. These are the opportunities I committed to, and the ones that are now part of a ‘“portfolio’- based consultancy career which entails working a maximum of two days per week.
What are you doing today?
My focus now is on the energy transition and finding solutions to the climate crisis. I work to help enterprises, governments, communities, and individuals tackle difficult challenges where large complex projects are involved.
Having left the fossil fuel industry after nearly four decades, I have experienced a significantly increased feeling of ‘agency’ outside of the corporate world. I feel I’ve had a more diverse impact as a consultant with many clients. Overall, I feel I have benefited from leaving BP and still enjoy the fact that I remain connected to former colleagues at BP, and with my networks beyond, and still coach and mentor some of them.
Leaving has allowed me so much more time for self-reflection, learning, and personal growth. So much more time to do the things I love and be with the people I love. I feel like I am making a bigger difference and now more able to be fully me!
I think that I did my best to make a difference and leave a legacy, even if I am dismayed that BP may have now pivoted back to a greater focus on fossil fuels. I loved my job and my fellow leaders; I learnt so much, gained a global network of friends and colleagues, and am very grateful for my past career at BP.
Parting reflections
Perhaps I might have left BP a few years earlier. I have one thing to share which relates to the decision about when to leave: You always think you need more money than you really do to be financially secure. If you feel you want to leave, do it sooner rather than later; don’t let financial security be too big a driver. If you’ve been well known and respected in your professional life, many opportunities will come to you. Be patient, take a year off to reflect and see what emerges for you!