In 1976, Petroplan’s co-founders, John Reeder and Graham Pyle, met as engineers on a large project in Canvey Island, UK for the Occidental Petroleum Company. During some project downtime they deliberated the need for more expertise in the market for project controls.
Their original business idea was to provide consultancy rather than people. The backdrop was that the demand for these skills and knowledge was growing in the North Sea. Many of the methods being implemented utilised technology which had been tested in the U.S. and Black and Caspian Sea regions, but was largely untried in the North Sea, a region which posed very different challenges.
The North Sea environment was harsher and the structures used would have to withstand higher waves and winds. Already some semi-submersibles and jack ups had been knocked down by weathe.
The deepening economic crisis in the UK meant that there was enormous pressure on the industry to get gas and – later – oil flowing. For the oil and gas operators, there were great profits to be made.
With John and Graham’s background in planning and control they created their first brochure which outlined their services. Petroplan Control Systems Ltd was registered on the 2nd July 1976, to provide ‘Project Controls for the Petrochemicals Industries.’
The key services were: planning, estimating, cost control, reports and statistics, material control and computer services … but you could choose the non-computerised route if the cost advantage wasn’t compelling!
First project
The business did not take on its first commercial project until March 1977, for the engineering contractor firm Matthew Hall Group (later acquired by AMEC Foster Wheeler in the 1990s).
However, it soon became clear that the overriding demand from clients was for the talented people required for project controls, across many engineering disciplines.
John and Graham were still contractors themselves during the business set-up phase and their network of contacts made them well-placed to find the talent the oil and gas industry needed.
Contractor recruitment business
Politically in the late 1970s and 1980s, much was changing in the oil and gas industry. British Petroleum was privatised in 1976, and in 1979 it acquired Britoil. Britoil’s role as part regulator and part oil company gave the UK government a large stake in the growing North Sea developments.
John continued to work some of the time on projects as a contractor, such as on the Fulmar platform in the North Sea, to allow an evolution of the business and, while there, he started to place contractors on this project.
By the end of 1977, Petroplan had 30 contractors on its payroll, leaving John and Graham free to focus on growing what had become their contractor recruitment business.
Becoming international
Overseas business for Petroplan began in the late 1970s, working with organisations such as Union Oil in the Netherlands, and Maersk and Danbor in Denmark, alongside other well-known international operators Shell, Texaco and Chevron.
Petroplan’s founders describe these projects as a time of great margins – higher than 20% in the contract recruitment market – and where deals were sealed with a handshake rather than lengthy contractual documents.
However, some things haven’t changed, such as attempts to predict the exact timing of ‘peak oil’. In the year Petroplan started (1976), Jimmy Carter talked about oil running out by 2011, and this debate still rumbles on.
Today’s exploration and extraction technology has made the longevity of this sector much more viable and can support many generations of oil and gas careers yet to come.
Building for further success
By 1979, the business required further investment in administration, and Jocelyn Thomerson joined to provide general accounts support and organisation for the back-office activity. Jos, later became a Board Director of Petroplan, leading the operational and contractor management side of the business.
She has recently semi-retired and moved to an NED role. For her, and her well trained global team, the care with which contractors’ well-being and placements are managed is still personal, but the technology to process and administer is now very different.
Petroplan was headquartered in London at various West End offices in the early years, decked out with such items as telex machines, with long ribbons reaching great lengths during busy periods, and Philips word processors to professionally produce typed CVs.
In 1981, Pauline Horton joined the team to also support contractor management and mobilisation. As time moved on, she also became a Main Board Director, and moved into a focal Client Relationship role. Over 30 years, Jos and Pauline have moved contractors across many global locations from the North Sea to Algeria to Iraq and Europe.
Moving with the Industry
During the 1980s and 1990s, Petroplan broadened its contractor base from its original focus of planning and cost engineers, to technical staff across the full spectrum of disciplines such as materials control, supply chain and project management to mechanical, electrical and commissioning engineers.
Key projects Petroplan’s contractors oversaw:
- The Tyra gas platforms in Denmark with the Danbar Drilling Company
- Floating schemes within the Ivanhoe North Sea oil fields, with Amerada Hess
- Multiple projects with Shell in the Netherlands
- Projects in the U.S. with Kerr McGee (now part of the Andarko Petroleum Corporation)
- BP projects in Norway
- Projects for Marathon Oil Corporation on refinery turnaround and tanker refits in the U.S. and in the North Sea Brae oilfields
- Work was also undertaken with Lasmo Oil and Agip UK (both now part of the Eni Group) on the Tiffany, Toni and Thelma fields – known as the T Block – to provide conceptual design teams and subsequently design, construction, installation and commissioning personnel
- Work in Saudi Arabia with a large national operator
- Project teams mobilised to Pakistan on behalf of Amec Foster Wheeler
- Kazakhstan exploration projects with consortia that included the government, supermajors and Agip UK, off the coast of the Northeast Caspian Sea
- BP projects within Azerbaijan including pipeline developments
- Nexen projects in the North Sea Buzzard oil field
Investing in the future
The 2000's saw strategic expansion with offices being opened beyond the headquarters in England from 2005. This started with Aberdeen, and was followed by Calgary, Houston, Dubai, Cape Town, Oman and most recently Mozambique.
A new direction was heralded in 2012 with the business placing more emphasis on talent acquisition for clients. Petroplan already had over 30 years of recruitment experience which was built on networks formed before the inception of LinkedIn and job boards.
At this juncture more recruiters and operational support services were put in place to also attract candidates for permanent positions in the energy industry, to expand our reach beyond the active contractor network.
In 2014, to grow our international capability, a new London office was created and this, and Houston now represent Petroplan’s main centres of excellence.
Looking ahead, we remain true to our principles
There have been many changes since 1976 – to business processes, technology, the Energy industry as a whole – but throughout it all Petroplan is governed by two fundamental constants.
Firstly, guided by the strength, wisdom and knowledge of the above mentioned four individuals who are all still main Board Directors today, our utter commitment to the care of our clients and contractors remains our solid foundation.
Secondly, we have a Board who truly understand the Energy industry and are not fazed by the ever-moving political and environmental pressures placed upon it. As oil price and demand for other sources of energy has flexed, along with the motivations of employers and individuals, so too has the Petroplan Group.
The heart of what we do – providing exceptional talent solutions to the energy industry – is the same today as it was at the beginning.
We know that delivering on our commitments for those that depend on our business is essential.
Let's talk
To have an initial, confidential discussion, please contact us here.
Latest jobs
Petroleum Engineer
Alkmaar, North Holland
Key Responsibilities Monitor production and injection well performance. Identify, initiate, develop and prepare production optimization activities and well interventions (e.g. work overs, rig-less interventions, foam injection, water wash etc.) and write the Well intervention Request. * Lead the weekly production optimization meetings with operations and engineering teams and supply instruction for operation of wells (WESP). Perform integrated production system capacity setting and contribute to production loss reporting process. * Understand, analyze, and describe the physical constraints applicable to well/reservoir/field production (and injection) to predict well behavior. E.g. sand, water and gas production, scaling potential, corrosion potential and erosion management system. * Perform integrated production system modelling for identification of production enhancement opportunities. Generate well performance curves for input to simulation models. * Review existing and new well designs and work over programs from the Well Engineering Department. Field witness during execution of well intervention programs. * Monitor well Integrity and provide input for the WIMS. * Deliver the quarterly gas production nominations to the commercial team. * Prepare and deliver presentations for technical meetings with joint venture partnersEXPERIENCE/KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS Essential * Minimum of 5 years working experience as a Petroleum Engineer, in an operator environment * Demonstrated experience with planning and execution of well interventions including cased hole logging. * Knowledge of well construction and design and well integrity management * Experience with production operations. Thorough knowledge of production technology fundamentals and ability to apply appropriate techniques. * Skilled nodal analysis software (preferably Petex suite MBAL/Prosper/GAP) and PI Process book. * Basic knowledge of production chemistry, including corrosion and scaling potential * Knowledge of production metering systems, * Skilled in MS Excel, Word and PowerPoint * Awareness of other subsurface disciplines e.g. Reservoir Engineering and Petrophysics * Up to date knowledge of technological developments, industry initiatives, etc. * Self-starter with a high sense of responsibility and professional credibility. Strong organizational, analytical as well as social and communication skills. * Safety and performance driven attitude * Fluent in EnglishPreferred * Experience working on mature assets or natural gas storage assets * Experience in the Southern North Sea or Dutch onshore fields * Experience with Risk assessments, HAZOP, HAZID * Proficiency in Dutch language About Petroplan Petroplan is the trusted, specialist global Talent Solutions partner of choice for employers and professionals in the Energy sector. Since 1976, Petroplan has been here to help people like you make the most of the opportunities available and find the best fit for you as an individual. Over 10,000 placements in more than 55 countries for over 550 clients across 65 disciplines. In an industry where skilled and experienced professionals are increasingly sought after resource, we appreciate the true value of what you have to offer. What's more, we understand that different things are important to different people in today's world of work - it's about making exactly the right connections for you as an individual. Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.
Geologist
Alkmaar, North Holland
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES * Perform and oversee external work on geomechanical modelling for the Midstream as well as Upstream assets. * Manage microseismic and soil movement monitoring network for Gas Storage Bergermeer. Perform and quality control soil movement predictions and seismic risk assessments. * Maximize value for the Concession gas fields through development geology activities. Update and maintain 3D static models and geological descriptions. Generate infill well proposals. * Perform seismic evaluation / interpretation and coordinate reprocessing as required * Perform Open hole log evaluations and correlations * Identification and maturation of exploration prospects including volumetrics, risk and uncertainty analysis. Supported by basin modelling and petroleum systems evaluation. * Peer-review Partner Operated Assets project proposals, representative at TCM's * Participate in evaluation of farm-in and acquisition opportunities * Provide geological input to Well Engineering team and CCUS projects for well design and construction * Act as operational geologist during drilling operations. Responsible for defining mud/well logging program planning and execution, wellsite geologist hiring and supervision, pressure measurements (RFTs), coring. * Provide the scope of work for work to be outsourced to external consultants and ensure quality of associated reporting * Execute work in accordance with the Corporate Critical Safe Work StandardsQUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCES AND SKILLS QUALIFICATIONS / TRAINING * M.Sc. /Ph.D. in Geology and/or Geophysics or similar * Knowledge of the Dutch / Southern North Sea subsurface specificallyEXPERIENCE/KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS Essential * Minimum of 5 years working experience as a Geoscientist, in an operator environment * Skilled in geomechanical modelling, soil movement predictions and seismic risk analysis * Skilled in 3D static modelling, using Schlumberger Petrel software * Experience with seismic data interpretation and awareness of processing * Experience with open hole log evaluation and routine core / cuttings analysis * Experience with petroleum systems modelling and exploration prospect evaluation * Skilled in MS Excel, Word and PowerPoint * Awareness of other subsurface disciplines e.g. Reservoir Engineering and Petrophysics * Up to date knowledge of technological developments, industry initiatives, etc. * Self-starter with a high sense of responsibility and professional credibility. Strong organizational, analytical as well as social and communication skills. * Safety and performance driven attitude * Fluent in English Preferred * Experience working on natural gas storage projects and mature upstream assets * Experience with operations / wellsite geology * Experience working on CCUS projects * Experience with naturally fractured reservoirs * Experience with Kingdom software About Petroplan Petroplan is the trusted, specialist global Talent Solutions partner of choice for employers and professionals in the Energy sector. Since 1976, Petroplan has been here to help people like you make the most of the opportunities available and find the best fit for you as an individual. Over 10,000 placements in more than 55 countries for over 550 clients across 65 disciplines. In an industry where skilled and experienced professionals are increasingly sought after resource, we appreciate the true value of what you have to offer. What's more, we understand that different things are important to different people in today's world of work - it's about making exactly the right connections for you as an individual. Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.
Construction Manager - Civil Works
Rotterdam, South Holland
Construction Manager Location: Rotterdam Permanent Staff position This is primarily a site-based role but will include a period of time in the head office environment working on front end project development such as contract strategies, planning and constructability. Your Duties: Set the highest levels of safety performance from all stakeholders In conjunction with Contractors' Management team undertakes a weekly HSSE inspection of allocated areas Ensure that contractors understand and implement the HSES plan Agree method statements, risk assessments and job safety analysis. Ensure that all work is carried out in accordance with agreed method statements Ensure all hazardous activities and those with potential risk to material or personnel, have an agreed method statement, and risk assessment prior to commencement of work Maintain supervisory attendance at all contractor toolbox talks and safety meetings. Encourage contractor safety incentive schemes and promote all AP processes, Client and contractors team building efforts Ensure Contractor, Client and Operator personnel understand and fully operate the project permit to work system including tag/lock-out requirements, and that only contractor authorized personnel operate the permit to work system Your Responsibilities: Support the Project Efforts through: Providing construction technical input to the project throughout the engineering phase Developing the project construction strategy, execution planning and contracting strategy Developing installation sequencing, schedule timings and resource requirements Preparing project specific site procedures and work practices as required Assisting with construction feasibility and method studies Supporting development of the project logistic strategy relevant to heavy and out of gauge equipment/modules Leading coordination of development of heavy lifting/installation studies including out of gauge equipment/modules Owning input to the Constructability of a plant, including use of the constructability checklist to identify critical execution issues Maintain the necessary training/qualification records for self and team to ensure quality assurance requirements are met Supporting the field commissioning activities through : Support field transition from construction to commissioning and ensure contractor management is being controlled during this phase Support the planning of contractor activities at site particularly in the phase transition between construction and commissioning Administrative functions include: Management of Safety Statistics, and leading efforts for improved safety culture and performance based on these. Ensuring methodologies around Site Changes are followed and managed Taking overall responsibility for the success of construction work scope under your control, defined as meeting Project requirements on Safety, Cost, Schedule and Quality. This includes carrying out audit, compliance and control checks within your scope of work Driving consistency and improvement of work processes for the Construction team Supporting Site Earned Value tracking Skills / Qualifications Demonstrable experience as a Construction Manager of Civil Works - at least 15 years of experience. It is a distinct advantage if the candidate has extensive experience in construction site leadership roles delivering major EPC capital projects valued £100 to £500million in industrial gases or associated industries such as Oil & Gas. Ideally, degree qualified or with Technically qualified / time served trades person with trade registrations / vocational qualifications. Demonstrable experience of managing large site teams - in particular experience in the Netherlands is an advantage. Demonstrate ability to understand importance of monitoring contractor performance by use of key performance indicators (KPI) and being able to report clearly site progress and performance to senior management. Working knowledge of relevant legislation, codes and standards with the ability to manage contractors. Recent on-shore Petrochemical and Oil & Gas experience. Computer literate (MS Office components) Use of and familiarity with process and safety tools such as P&ID's and HAZOPs. Understanding of typical design datasheet/drawings and familiar with General design/construction standards in Mechanical /E&I field. Exposure to Change Management processes and implementation is an advantage Project costing skills for evaluation Demonstrable Self Starter attributes. Demonstrate experience with directly managing multi-discipline site teams Proven ability to communicate effectively at all levels both within and outside of the organisation. An experienced leader and developer of teams, with a proven ability to lead, engage and motivate the team. Experience with Completions Systems (desirable - Go Completions) Experience with Advanced Work Packs Methodology Ability to perform and maintain deadlines under pressure Positive "can do" attitude & strong work ethic. Excellent communication skills. Excellent English (spoken and written) Dutch speaking is an advantage. About Petroplan Petroplan is the trusted, specialist global Talent Solutions partner of choice for employers and professionals in the Energy sector. Since 1976, Petroplan has been here to help people like you make the most of the opportunities available and find the best fit for you as an individual. Over 10,000 placements in more than 55 countries for over 550 clients across 65 disciplines. In an industry where skilled and experienced professionals are increasingly sought after resource, we appreciate the true value of what you have to offer. What's more, we understand that different things are important to different people in today's world of work - it's about making exactly the right connections for you as an individual. Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.
Senior Accountant
South London, London
We are currently supporting a major EPC that specialises in offshore and deep sea projects in their search for a Senior Accountant to join them on a staff basis in their South London offices. This is an exciting opportunity to take on a high visibility role and have responsibility for the organization's consolidated cash flow reporting, and financial support to tenders on their largest projects. The ideal candidate will be a part-qualified accountant (or equivalent degree holder), with experience in Finance functions, and understanding of large-scale construction projects involving multiple entities and currencies. The individual will be a highly motivated and practical person, comfortable working under their own initiative, but also be able to respond to tight deadlines and deliverables as and when requested by Management. Specific Key Responsibilities & Activities Consolidate monthly cash flow submission to Corporate Treasury and provide support to the organization's annual budget and five year plan process as well as other ad-hoc cash flow scenario exercises Work with project teams to continually improve cash flow accuracy, optimize cash position and support the development of our strategies for liquidity, financing and currency exposure management Monitor cash receivables and follow up with projects to ensure timely cash collection Continually seek to improve our cash flow reporting process and procedures as well as our systems and tools Work with multi-disciplinary tender teams to provide timely support to the development of our commercial strategies and proposals Coordinate the various stakeholders within the Tender, Taxes and Treasury teams to develop, document and approve financial recommendation to tenders in line with Group tendering policies and specific requirements of each tender Ensure awareness of and adhesion to the Group procedures and systems as well as the use of effective and consistent ways of working across the portfolio Ensure proactive methods in sharing knowledge and experience, raising areas of difficulty and concern and assisting in improving routines Act as focal point for Treasury and Tendering subjects within Finance Requirements: Operate with the highest standards of integrity, preserving the confidentiality of the information available with the role Be a part-qualified accountant (or equivalent degree holder) with prior experience in Finance roles, ideally in similar organisation delivering construction projects and operating in multiple entities and currencies. Work collaboratively within multi-national, multi-location teams Be able to prepare high quality/accuracy, engaging reports and presentations, suitable for a senior audience review. Be motivated to continue to learn and support the region on the development of our strategies as well as new tools and reporting requirements to improve our cash flow reporting and control. Possess a comprehensive understanding of all common business software applications (Microsoft suite) and be able to quickly learn and maximise the value from new applications About Petroplan Petroplan is the trusted, specialist global Talent Solutions partner of choice for employers and professionals in the Energy sector. Since 1976, Petroplan has been here to help people like you make the most of the opportunities available and find the best fit for you as an individual. Over 10,000 placements in more than 55 countries for over 550 clients across 65 disciplines. In an industry where skilled and experienced professionals are increasingly sought after resource, we appreciate the true value of what you have to offer. What's more, we understand that different things are important to different people in today's world of work - it's about making exactly the right connections for you as an individual. Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.
Project Logistics Specialist
Surrey
One of the leading global industrial gas owner/operator companies is looking for a Project Logistics Specialist to join them in their Surrey offices. This position is responsible for the successful execution of Project Logistics strategies on new plant asset projects in Europe, Africa, the Middle East (EMEA). The incumbent is charged with supporting, developing, negotiating, implementing and maintaining competitively advantageous supply agreements. The incumbent interfaces primarily with the Engineering, Procurement and Project Execution teams, supporting new plant build proposals and projects.The incumbent will have intimate knowledge of the shipping markets, practices and standards. This position supports supplier/contractor relationship management with operations and business strategies. This position challenges technical specifications, commercial practices, operating practices and business processes with a focus on driving efficient operations. Strong Project Logistics knowledge, project, planning and negotiating skills are required.Travel will be required at times for this position, primarily, but not restricted to, within the EMEA region supporting logistics/operating sites, supplier, partner & client visits. Responsibilities: Collaborating with a variety of functions including operations, engineering, legal, and business management to achieve goals. Effectively using Logistics Material Control systems. Effectively using e-Sourcing tools to launch inquiries and receive supplier quotations/proposals. Assisting in developing strategies for and lead the commercial contracting negotiations for 3rd party logistics services. Developing efficient bid tabulations and lead sourcing reviews with a cross functional team. Supporting Project Logistics Manager with bid phase Shipping estimates and development of cost forecasts. Identify, develop and manage suppliers; understand safety, commercial and capacity risks. Understanding the logistics markets and the industries in which we do business. Monitor, communicate, and respond to changing market conditions and business drivers to enhance leverage and minimize risk. Lead cross-functional teams involved in supplier discovery and optimizing the organization's logistics spend. Work closely with supported businesses and functional organizations to ensure stability and cost effectiveness of supply. Bring innovative supplier solutions to enhance value proposition for individual projects and or across the supply chain. Effectively participate in Continuous Improvement activities. Assist in leading supplier performance and maintain interface within supplier's organization. Manage budgets and achieve targeted savings, develop and lead key supplier relationships to ensure alignment with business strategies. Requirements: Recent industrial experience, involving international transport, trade and project logistics / project management experience. Project Shipping experience is crucial. Must have experience in ocean, air and road logistics. Experience with SAP is advantageous. Flexible working and short notice travel ability. Strong organizational, team and time management skills. Working understanding of Microsoft suite of programs (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.) Good analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to effectively communicate (written and verbal) technical and non-technical information. Strong desire to work in a fast-paced, global environment. About Petroplan Petroplan is the trusted, specialist global Talent Solutions partner of choice for employers and professionals in the Energy sector. Since 1976, Petroplan has been here to help people like you make the most of the opportunities available and find the best fit for you as an individual. Over 10,000 placements in more than 55 countries for over 550 clients across 65 disciplines. In an industry where skilled and experienced professionals are increasingly sought after resource, we appreciate the true value of what you have to offer. What's more, we understand that different things are important to different people in today's world of work - it's about making exactly the right connections for you as an individual. Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.
Petroplan is seeking to hire Drilling Engineer for one of its clientsJob Requirement * The job holder will hold a BSc of MSc or equivalent in appropriate engineering discipline (Mechanical, Chemical, Offshore or Petroleum). * Considering the high technicality of the wells, the job holder must have at least 7 years of confirmed experience in Drilling (calls for tender/contracts, programs and operational follow-up) * Experience in Land rig operations in Oman or MENA zone is a strong advantage * IWCF certification level 4 minimum is a must * Knowledge in related domains such as geology & reservoir * Understanding of logistic activities related to Drilling operations * Well-developed knowledge of contractual/legal/terms & conditions/insurance issues About Petroplan Petroplan is the trusted, specialist global Talent Solutions partner of choice for employers and professionals in the Energy sector. Since 1976, Petroplan has been here to help people like you make the most of the opportunities available and find the best fit for you as an individual. Over 10,000 placements in more than 55 countries for over 550 clients across 65 disciplines. In an industry where skilled and experienced professionals are increasingly sought after resource, we appreciate the true value of what you have to offer. What's more, we understand that different things are important to different people in today's world of work - it's about making exactly the right connections for you as an individual. Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.
Hydrocarbon Accounting Engineer
Rosslyn, Virginia
Hydrocarbon Accounting Engineer I am excited to announce an incredible opportunity for a Hydrocarbon Accounting Engineer with Petroplan, as we partner with an established global LNG company. If you have a passion for the energy industry and a desire to contribute to the development of clean and reliable North American energy supplies, this role is for you! In this position, you will join the team at our client's facility in Louisiana before transitioning to the offices in Arlington, Virginia. Reporting directly to the Production Engineering Manager, your primary responsibility will be to develop and maintain the production data and reports. Key Responsibilities: Ensure the integrity and reliability of production data Develop and maintain daily, weekly, and monthly production reports Analyze and report on production performance, including key performance indicators (KPIs) Create and maintain loss accounting summaries to identify and categorize production losses Support the implementation of the Production Data Management System and the allocation network for production Collaborate with Commercial Operations to integrate production reports with LNG cargo scheduling and lifting processes Assist with production forecasting and provide timely data for monthly forecasts and the Annual Delivery Plan Support environmental and compliance reporting Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Process/Chemical or Petroleum Engineering 1 to 4 years of experience as an Engineer in a process plant environment (hydrocarbon accounting experience is a plus) Demonstrated passion for a career in hydrocarbon accounting and a keen interest in learning and development Oil and gas experience is required, with preference given to those with LNG applications experience; however, experience in petrochemical, NGL, cryogenic natural gas processing, or other hydrocarbon processing may be acceptable If you are a motivated and detail-oriented professional seeking to contribute to the growth of the LNG industry, I encourage you to apply. Petroplan and our esteemed global LNG client offer a dynamic work environment and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the energy sector. To apply for this position, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter explaining your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role. We appreciate all applications, but only selected candidates will be contacted for an interview. Petroplan is an equal opportunity employer, and we value diversity and inclusivity in our workforce. We look forward to receiving your application and having the chance to discuss this opportunity further with you. About Petroplan Petroplan is the trusted, specialist global Talent Solutions partner of choice for employers and professionals in the Energy sector. Since 1976, Petroplan has been here to help people like you make the most of the opportunities available and find the best fit for you as an individual. Over 10,000 placements in more than 55 countries for over 550 clients across 65 disciplines. In an industry where skilled and experienced professionals are increasingly sought after resource, we appreciate the true value of what you have to offer. What's more, we understand that different things are important to different people in today's world of work - it's about making exactly the right connections for you as an individual. Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.
FP&A Analyst
Houston, Texas
Job Title: FP&A Analyst Location: Houston, TX Type of Role: Direct Hire/ Permanent Overview Petroplan has been a trusted, global talent solutions partner for over forty years, specializing in supporting projects and connecting talented professionals in the Energy Industry. We have partnered with a client experiencing massive growth in search of an FP&A Analyst. This is an opportunity to Join a high-energy, entrepreneurial culture that recognizes and rewards hard work and high-level performance. Responsibilities Monthly forecasting and annual budget processes Work with cross-functional groups, develop forecasts, budgets, and financial models to drive business decisions. Create financial presentations for upper management Perform weekly ad hoc financial analysis Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Accounting/Finance or equivalent Strong experience with financial modeling plus Invest banking a plus! Minimum 2 years of relevant experience for an Energy Company Strong organizational skills, team-player, detail-oriented Excellent communication skills About Petroplan Petroplan is the trusted, specialist global Talent Solutions partner of choice for employers and professionals in the Energy sector. Since 1976, Petroplan has been here to help people like you make the most of the opportunities available and find the best fit for you as an individual. Over 10,000 placements in more than 55 countries for over 550 clients across 65 disciplines. In an industry where skilled and experienced professionals are increasingly sought after resource, we appreciate the true value of what you have to offer. What's more, we understand that different things are important to different people in today's world of work - it's about making exactly the right connections for you as an individual. Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.
Project Advisor
Calgary, Alberta
Project AdvisorDescription: Project advisor reporting to Manager; Site Operations; Canadian Refined Products. The Project Advisor will be involved in small Capital projects management support and Cost controls & Reporting across Canadian Refined Products construction team.Responsibilities * Small capital projects management (HVAC, Paving, Roofing, Site Re-Branding, Branded Dealers) * AFE creation and cost management across Construction team * Regulatory compliance management (tank registrations, tank and line testing) * Purchase requisitions and capital spend tracking and reporting in SAP * Key stakeholders are external contractors, internal Canadian Refined Products construction, repair and maintenance groups, district managers, Finance, Procurement, and Downstream Small Projects * Key metrics: safety, cost, schedule for all project workDeliverables * Small capital projects delivered safely, on-time, and on budget * Opportunity memos and AFE's per annual capital budget * Monthly capital projects spend reporting in Downstream Small Projects Dashboard * Regulatory Tank Registration: Ensure payments are made on time and certificates are posted at the sites. Working with District Managers on Branded Dealer locations.Competencies * Planning and budgeting * SAP Procurement and Reporting knowledge * Time management and prioritizing * Creative problem-solving * Cross-functional stakeholder management * Contractor cost and schedule management and relationship building * Flexibility and adaptability * ReportingQualifications/Skills * Bachelor's degree or college diploma in Business or Technical discipline required * Project Manager Professional (PMP) Designation is an asset * 3 - 5 years managing cost and schedule of complex project work is an asset * 3 - 5 years retail fuels experience is an asset * Role requires a creative problem solver, who is flexible, adaptable, and able to manage multiple cross-functional stakeholders About Petroplan Petroplan is the trusted, specialist global Talent Solutions partner of choice for employers and professionals in the Energy sector. Since 1976, Petroplan has been here to help people like you make the most of the opportunities available and find the best fit for you as an individual. Over 10,000 placements in more than 55 countries for over 550 clients across 65 disciplines. In an industry where skilled and experienced professionals are increasingly sought after resource, we appreciate the true value of what you have to offer. What's more, we understand that different things are important to different people in today's world of work - it's about making exactly the right connections for you as an individual. Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.
Lead Mechanical Engineer
Houston, TX, Texas
About: Petroplan is recruiting for a Lead Mechanical Engineer in Houston, TX. Thge client is an American LNG Provider for the global demand for natural gas at a low cost, replacing traditional models with innovative, efficient and reliable mid-scale modular plant designs for long-term sustainability of clean and reliable US energy. The Mechanical Lead will oversee the engineering, design and troubleshooting of mechanical equipment for the LNG facilities located in Louisiana. Education: BBA or MS in Mechanical Engineering Experience: 10-12 years of experience on capital projects from feasibility through construction 3 years' experience as a Lead Mechanical Engineer managing a team Responsibilities: Perform job responsibilities as Lead Engineer, leading discipline on medium projects or assigned under the direction of the Department Manager and/or Project Engineer for larger projects Ensure adherence to project specifications, governing codes and standards, and good engineering practice Ensure adherence to project health, safety, security and environmental (HSSE) requirements as well as state and federal regulations Leads the effort in the development of mechanical engineering hour estimates for proposed projects, develop man loading and schedule concurrence. Monitor the schedule, ensure that project objectives are met, monitor project controls and engineering execution within the approved budget Responsible for reporting on engineering, design and equipment development status to the Lead Mechanical Engineer, and performing monthly or bi-weekly assessments of progress Participate and contribute advanced level development of all phases of project engineering, including detail design and construction support Experience in development of upstream production facility drawings, checking process equipment system designs and participation in hazard reviews performed to API Enforces Quality in his/her team. Develop the technical content of Mechanical equipment calculations, specifications and data sheets for inquiry and purchase. Ensure these documents are appropriately reviewed, approved, and transmitted Has direct communication with equipment manufacturers and works clarifications to resolution. Typical equipment includes Vessels, Heat Exchangers, Fired Equipment, HVAC, Pumps, Compressors. General knowledge of applicable codes and standards. Procedure development including start-up, commissioning, operating and maintenance. Coordinate and incorporate project requirements and standards. Develop Mechanical Work Plans for the installation of equipment Initiate Project Deviation Notices that impact the mechanical specifications, effort-hour budget and/or schedule Coordinate and cooperate with the Engineers of other disciplines to ensure the smooth flow of all information, and to ensure alignment with project requirements and design basis Initiate and runs status meetings with the mechanical team to discuss project issues, coordinate/plan key milestone efforts, etc. Responsible for obtaining cost related information and developing scope of work documents for project estimates (e.g., TIC estimates) Skills / Qualifications: Mechanical Engineering upstream design expertise in process equipment systems About Petroplan Petroplan is the trusted, specialist global Talent Solutions partner of choice for employers and professionals in the Energy sector. Since 1976, Petroplan has been here to help people like you make the most of the opportunities available and find the best fit for you as an individual. Over 10,000 placements in more than 55 countries for over 550 clients across 65 disciplines. In an industry where skilled and experienced professionals are increasingly sought after resource, we appreciate the true value of what you have to offer. What's more, we understand that different things are important to different people in today's world of work - it's about making exactly the right connections for you as an individual. Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.
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As the world continues to experience the effects of climate change, governments and organizations have made a lot of noise about reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and transition to cleaner forms of energy. How much of the talk turns into action will be critical for the future of our industry and our world.
Arash Roknian is leading Petroplan’s Clean Energy business in the US, as it becomes a larger part of the organization’s overall business model.
“As a recruiter, I’m drawn to clean energy because it represents a huge opportunity for innovation and economic growth,” says Arash.
“The clean energy sector is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, with tremendous potential for job creation and economic development.”
Arash acknowledges that the pace of change can never be fast enough, given the urgency and what’s at stake.
“When we look at the progress that has been made so far, as well as some of the challenges that remain, it’s clear there’s a long way to go.”
One of the most significant signs of progress has been the rapid growth of renewable energy sources. According to the International Energy Agency, renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power accounted for 72% of global electricity generation capacity additions in 2020. This number continues to grow.
In fact, renewable energy sources are now the second-largest source of electricity worldwide. This growth has been driven by falling costs and government incentives, as well as increasing awareness of the need to address climate change.
Another positive development has been the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. While it’s still a small percentage of the overall vehicle market, sales of electric vehicles have been growing rapidly in recent years.
“We’re looking at up to 25% of new cars being electric by 2025,” Arash says.
“This growth is expected to continue as more automakers introduce new electric models and governments implement policies to encourage their adoption”
Despite these positive developments, there are still significant challenges in the energy transition. While renewable energy sources are growing rapidly, they still only account for a small percentage of total energy consumption.
“Another challenge is the need to upgrade and modernize electricity grids,” he says.
“Renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power are intermittent, meaning that they are not always available when needed. This requires a flexible and resilient electricity grid that can balance supply and demand in real-time.”
A major aspect of his team’s current activities is Hydrogen, where the US is making a huge push in development.
“It is a particularly exciting energy source for a number of reasons, including its high energy content, its versatility, and its potential to be produced from renewable sources.”
Hydrogen has a very high energy content per unit of weight, making it an extremely efficient fuel. It has three times more energy per unit of weight than gasoline, and when burned, it produces only water vapor as a byproduct. This makes hydrogen a very clean-burning fuel, with no emissions of pollutants or greenhouse gases.
Hydrogen is a very versatile energy source. It can be used in a variety of applications, including fuel cells for vehicles and power generation, industrial processes, and heating. It can also be used as a feedstock for the production of chemicals and other materials.
Hydrogen also has the potential to be produced from renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power through a process called electrolysis. This involves using electricity to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. When renewable energy is used to power the electrolysis process, the resulting hydrogen is completely carbon-free and emits no greenhouse gases.
Despite these challenges involved in production and storage, there is growing excitement around its potential as a clean, versatile, and efficient fuel.
Finally, there is the challenge of ensuring that the energy transition is equitable and just.
“The shift to renewable energy sources has the potential to create new jobs and economic opportunities, but it also has the potential to disrupt existing industries and communities. It is important that the transition is managed in a way that takes into account the needs and concerns of all stakeholders, including workers in the fossil fuel industry.”
Arash himself has been working in recruitment for ten years. After beginning his career in London, he transitioned to Houston four years ago, looking to take a role in one of the key battlegrounds of the energy transition.
“As a millennial, I’m acutely aware of the urgent need to address climate change and transition to a more sustainable, clean energy future. For me, working in clean energy is not just a job, it's a way to make a real difference and help build a better world.”
“Finally, I am drawn to clean energy because it offers the opportunity to work with a diverse range of people from different backgrounds and disciplines. The transition to clean energy is a complex, interdisciplinary challenge that requires collaboration and cooperation across a wide range of fields, from engineering and science to policy and finance. I believe that diverse teams are more innovative and effective, and I am excited about the prospect of working with people from different backgrounds and perspectives to find creative solutions to the challenges of the clean energy transition.”
The renewable energy sector will continue to grow in the coming years, with the potential to create up to 42 million jobs globally by 2050. However, this growth will depend on supportive policies and investment in the sector, as well as the continued development and deployment of renewable energy technologies.
“We’re all excited about the possibilities. We just need to make sure we’re moving fast enough.”
Major energy projects in the Asia-Pacific region
06 Feb 2023
Energy production in Asia and the Pacific is growing faster than anywhere else in the world. By 2030, 56% of the world’s energy will originate from the region.
A wave of new energy projects continues to drive this growth as countries seek to meet the demands of rising populations while also transitioning to renewable energy.
We’ve picked out some of the biggest projects from recent years that are set to play a key role in raising the region’s energy capacity.
An overview of the Asia-Pacific energy sectorHome to a large and diverse population at different levels of economic development, the Asia-Pacific region faces several challenges with energy supply and electrification.
Significant progress has been made over the last decade in expanding the supply of electricity to remote areas like the Pacific Islands. The transition to clean energy is also well underway, with the number of new renewable energy projects growing year on year.
Green investment has so far been focused on solar energy, offshore wind and hydropower. The region has also emerged as a leader in the production of lithium-ion batteries, a fast-growing market in which China currently holds a 79% share.
Coal, gas and oil remain the primary sources of energy, however, with fossil fuels accounting for around 85% of the region’s combined energy consumption. This figure is significantly higher than in Europe and North America.
The next decade will be pivotal as the region seeks to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and on coal in particular. Key players like China, India and Australia are poised to play a big part in shaping both the regional and global energy outlook.
Five key energy projects in the Asia-Pacific regionA wide range of projects are currently under development as the Asia-Pacific region looks to scale up its supply of energy, creating thousands of new energy sector jobs in the process.
We’ve gathered five of the region’s most significant energy projects that have recently been completed or are set to take shape over the coming years below.
Ubol Ratana Dam Hydro-Floating Solar Hybrid Project, ThailandThailand’s government is currently working on an ambitious project to develop 16 floating solar farms with a combined capacity of more than 2.7GW by 2037.
Among these new solar farms is Sirindhorn dam, a major project touted as the world’s largest floating hydro-solar farm that combines solar, hydropower and energy storage systems.
Given that the country’s clean energy capacity currently sits at around 12GW, the project will go a long way to helping Thailand achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, while also creating thousands of renewable energy jobs for local people.
MacIntyre Wind Precinct, AustraliaMacIntyre Wind Precinct is an onshore wind complex consisting of two wind farms currently under construction in Stanthorpe, Queensland.
At full capacity, the AU$2 billion project is expected to generate around 1GW, making it one of the world’s largest onshore wind farms.
Along with the 180 wind turbines scheduled for construction, MacIntyre Wind Precinct will also include 65km of transmission lines and two new switching stations.
The project is set to support around 600 wind farm jobs in construction and transmission across its operational lifetime.
Australia-Asia PowerLink, Singapore and AustraliaThe Australia-Asia PowerLink (or AAPowerLink) is a major energy infrastructure project set to begin construction in 2023, with operation starting in 2026 and completion by the end of 2027.
The intercontinental power grid will transport electricity from Australia to Singapore via the world’s longest submarine power cable. The ambitious project will also feature the world’s largest solar plant and the world’s largest battery.
At full capacity, the AAPowerLink is expected to meet up to 15% of Singapore’s electricity demand, and there are also plans to export electricity to Indonesia. The project will create around 1,500 wind farm construction jobs and a further 350 lineman jobs once operational.
Kapar CCGT Power Plant, MalaysiaFossil fuels are set to remain an important part of the Asia-Pacific region’s energy mix over the next decade, with most new investment going to natural gas.
Malaysia is looking to leverage this natural resource by building a new 2.1GW combined-cycle power plant in the town of Kapar, which is around 50km west of the capital Kuala Lumpur, at an estimated cost of $2 billion.
The power plant will use a gas turbine to generate electricity, with waste heat routed to a nearby steam turbine that generates additional power.
Aligned with Malaysia’s commitment to net-zero by 2050, the site will be able to support hydrogen co-firing by the time commercial operations begin in 2031. It will also provide local people with power plant jobs.
Sarulla Geothermal Power Generation Project, IndonesiaStraddling the Ring of Fire, Indonesia is a volcanically active country with vast supplies of geothermal energy. In fact, the country is home to around 40% of the world’s geothermal energy reserves and second only to the USA in geothermal power generation.
The Indonesian government has been adding new geothermal power plants to its energy grid for some time, with the 330MW Sarulla Geothermal Power Generation Project among the biggest in recent years.
Completed in 2018, the power plant created around 1,800 geothermal jobs for locals and now powers the homes of 2.1 million people. It’s considered one of the world’s largest geothermal power plants.
The future of energy in the Asia-Pacific regionSteady strides have already been made towards decarbonisation, but there are still challenges for countries in the region to overcome. Chief among them is the need to meet the growing demand from a rapidly rising population without compromising long-term energy security.
As with other regions, progress has not been spread evenly; most countries are still heavily reliant on coal and lag behind the examples set by the likes of Japan and Australia. In most cases, this is because they lack the financial means to increase the supply of renewable energy.
Initiatives like the Asia-Pacific Green Deal for Business are however helping to level the playing field, particularly in places like South Asia and the Pacific Islands. Should the region succeed with its energy transitions, it’s clear that a multilateral approach will be key.
In terms of new renewable energy projects, there is growing optimism about the potential of offshore wind in North Asia. South Korea, Japan and Vietnam are now following the example set by Taiwan in developing large offshore wind farms, creating thousands of offshore construction jobs.
Geothermal energy capacity will continue to grow in seismically active countries like Indonesia, New Zealand and the Philippines. The region is also expected to become a global leader in various developing technologies like biomass and green hydrogen.
These resources, along with the region’s established networks of hydropower, solar energy and onshore wind, must all be scaled up quickly to ensure a secure and sustainable future for Asia and the Pacific.
Powering the Asia-Pacific region's energy transitionAre you looking to hire for an upcoming project in the Asia-Pacific region? We recruit for a wide range of petroleum engineering jobs and jobs in renewable energy. With a decade’s experience in the region, we can be trusted to find the right fit for your role. Contact us today to get started.
Historically a region that has relied heavily on its vast reserves of oil and gas, the Middle East, is fast becoming a leader in renewable energy.
Clean energy capacity in the region doubled between 2010 and 2020 to 40GW, with this figure set to double again by 2024.
The shift has been sparked by changes in legislation as an increasing number of countries commit to clean energy targets and net zero.
Which Middle Eastern countries are leading the charge to clean energy?For decades, the Middle East’s energy mix has been comprised almost exclusively of oil and natural gas. As recently as 2019, these two energy sources made up more than 98% of total supply in the region.
Recent volatility with oil and gas prices has underlined the risks of relying solely on fossil fuels and, as part of the wider push towards net zero, several countries are now seeking to diversify their energy assets.
The UAE, a leader for renewables in the region, is aiming to increase the contribution of clean energy in the total energy mix to 50% by 2050. Along with a scaling up of solar, wind and biomass, the country is also targeting a 25% share of the global low-carbon hydrogen market by 2030.
Saudi Arabia has set the most ambitious target of generating 50% of its energy from clean sources by 2030. Solar farms will be the driving force behind the Kingdom’s transition, with the country also investing heavily in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.
Elsewhere, Qatar is among the countries adopting electric vehicle (EV) technologies and plans to transition to an emissions-free public transport system by 2030. Israel and Oman are also taking steps to reach net zero by 2050, generating thousands of renewable energy jobs for local people.
Key renewable energy projects in the Middle EastSome of the world’s biggest and most ambitious renewable energy projects can be found in the Middle East. We’ve picked out three key projects that are set to drive the region’s transition to renewable energy over the coming decades.
Neom, Saudi ArabiaThe Neom megacity currently under construction in the northwest of Saudi Arabia promises to push the boundaries of urban design. Its ambitious scope of work extends to energy, with the city to be powered entirely by solar, wind and other forms of renewable energy.
Neom will also feature what has been dubbed the world’s largest green-hydrogen-based ammonia production plant. The facility is expected to produce up to 600 tonnes of carbon-free hydrogen per day, which will be used as a sustainable alternative to fuel within the global transportation industry.
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, UAEOperational since 2013, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is soon to be the world’s largest single-site solar power plant. The power plant’s capacity is projected to reach 5GW by 2030, enough to power 320,000 homes. At its peak, the project created around 1,280 energy sector jobs.
Alongside the Noor Abu Dhabi Solar Power Plant, which primarily serves the city of Abu Dhabi and holds the current title for the world’s largest single-site power plant, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park will play a key part in the UAE’s push towards net zero.
Dumat al-Jandal Wind Farm, Saudi ArabiaDumat al-Jandal Wind Farm is Saudi Arabia’s first wind farm and the largest of its kind in the Middle East. Construction on the project began in 2019 and the wind farm was connected to the country’s grid last year. To date, it has created over 1,000 wind farm jobs for local people.
Work on Dumat al-Jandal is still ongoing, with completion imminent. Once fully operational, it’s expected that the wind farm will have a capacity of 400MW, helping to displace approximately one million tonnes of carbon dioxide every year.
The future of renewable energy in the Middle EastWith its sprawling desert terrain and exposure to intense solar irradiation, the future of energy in the Middle East is likely to be led by solar power. The renewable energy source is set to account for 15% of the region’s power mix by 2030, creating thousands of solar jobs in the process.
Due to the intermittent nature of solar energy, significant resources have also been allocated to wind energy. New projects in Oman, Egypt and Saudi Arabia will generate plenty of wind farm jobs for local people and industry contractors while bringing the region closer to its clean energy targets.
The region has also emerged as a leader in green hydrogen. Several trade agreements, including the UAE-Germany Hydrogen Partnership and Saudi Arabia-Germany Hydrogen Agreement, will see the Middle East becoming a major exporter of green hydrogen in the coming decades.
Similarly, the region has established itself as a hub for the development of CCS technology. Carbon capture will help to reduce emissions from industrial processes while also contributing to the production of low-carbon hydrogen.
The development of clean energy in the Middle East is exciting news not only for the region but also for the rest of the world. Other countries will benefit from the region’s exports and innovations, creating millions of renewable energy jobs and accelerating the global push towards net zero.
Supporting the energy transition in the Middle EastWith over a decade’s experience in the Middle East, Petroplan is perfectly placed to support renewable energy companies and candidates through the energy transition. We recruit for a wide range of renewable energy jobs and can be trusted to find the right fit for any role.
Contact us today to discuss our specialist renewable energy recruitment services.
Power for Petroplan: A look back at 2022
06 Jan 2023
2022 has been a busy but successful year for Petroplan. From scaling up our clean energy operations in the Middle East, to growing our team in North America, we have continued to expand our range of energy services across the globe.
As we continue to grow and adapt our offering to suit the rapidly evolving market landscape, we focus on prioritising and championing the best talent in the sector.
With 2022 drawing to a close, we look back on some of the highlights and achievements across the year…
We kick-started 2022 with a raft of appointments and expansions across the globe, signalling the start of a strategic organisational shift to sharpen our service offering. This business transformation was delivered by six newly appointed senior leadership team members, led by CEO Christopher Honeyman Brown.
January also marked the beginning of the expansion of our operations in the Middle East, driven from our offices in Oman and the UAE – supporting projects across the region in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait too. To accommodate a growing workforce in the region, we acquired more office space in Dubai’s business district at Jumeriah Lake Towers and welcomed new team members in the Muscat office. Leading this growth in the region is Regional Director EMEA, Darren Brown, and Recruitment Director EMEA, Dean Greenwood.
February saw the transformative remodelling of our office in Houston, Texas, to provide a larger and more efficient workspace for the growing US team. US team member Helen Fowler celebrated 8 years at Petroplan this year, following her promotion to Head of Compliance and Operations, North America, in 2021 – an honourable mention!
In recognition of the re-invigoration of energy projects in North America post-pandemic, we appointed David Waterfield as Director for North America in May. David manages our hubs in Houston, Texas, and Calgary, Alberta, and specialises in LNG export projects. As a result, the team in North America is exploring a number of opportunities to support LNG development projects and operational facilities, concentrating on operations in the US Gulf Coast, Western Canada and the Mexico Pacific Coast.
In May, we celebrated the launch of our employee share scheme – the first of its kind in the recruitment sector. The scheme gives all our employees across the globe – no matter their level or experience – the option to enrol on the scheme on joining the company, with shares exercisable on sale. The share scheme has strengthened our continued mission to attract and retain high quality talent within the industry, and has encouraged productivity, performance, and engagement in the team – building an inclusive culture to celebrate everyone’s successes.
To take advantage of the multiple opportunities for growth in mining and energy in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, Petroplan expanded its operations into the large, mineral-rich province in July. The expansion is in line with the increasing demand for hydroelectric, hydrogen and wind power in the region, led by our business consultants in Canada.
Continuing our expansion in the Middle East and following a contractual agreement with national oil company Saudi Aramco in 2019, we expanded our activity in Saudi Arabia in August. This expansion focused on the EPC market in the Eastern province of KSA, and coincides with the Saudi Vision 2030, a strategic framework to reduce the country’s dependence on oil, meet net zero targets and diversify its economy. Petroplan will be supporting significant client projects in the region in the coming years, including the new city of Neom.
In September, the business announced its expansion into the Asia-Pacific region, and appointed Daniel Torpy to drive this new offering forward. With a regional headquarters in Singapore, we have initially focused on driving business expansion in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. In 2023, we will be entering the Australian market in line with government investment in the country’s renewable energy sector.
To end the year, in November we received the news that our annual contribution to Oakleaf’s Mental Health Leaders Network (of which we were founding members in 2021) has helped to provide 50 people with 12 weeks of counselling this year. Oakleaf is a charity who provide free support for those suffering from mental health problems in Guildford, Surrey, and the surrounding areas – where our UK headquarters is based.
As we look ahead to 2023, we will continue to grow into new markets and evolve our service offering, focusing on clean and renewable energy projects in line with international government targets and priorities.
The transition to renewable energy has given rise to a modern-day mineral rush. Increasing investment in green technology has seen soaring demand for the essential materials that power these systems.
According to the World Bank, production of the planet’s most critical minerals for energy transition will need to grow by 500% over the next 30 years in order to avoid the worst effects of climate change.
Surging demand for these materials presents new challenges to energy security – challenges that can only be solved through the combined efforts of key players from across the supply chain.
The use of critical minerals in renewable energy technologyAs with oil refineries and power plants, renewable energy systems are reliant on a wide range of minerals for their construction and continued operation. Generally, these systems require more minerals than their fossil fuel-based counterparts.
According to the IEA, the production of an electric vehicle (EV) calls for approximately six times more minerals than a conventional car. Offshore wind farms need 12 times as many minerals for every megawatt of electricity produced compared to natural gas systems.
Elsewhere, critical minerals can be found in the high-performance motors, batteries and generators that power solar farms and green hydrogen systems. The widespread need for raw materials and required pace of transition means that minerals sourcing must be scaled up significantly.
What critical minerals are needed for the energy transition?The types of minerals needed to support energy transition vary by technology. Some elements are essential for batteries, while others are especially suited to motors, magnets or electrical wiring. Here, we explore five of the materials in greatest demand.
CopperArguably the most important mineral for energy transition, copper can be found in a wide range of clean energy technologies including wind turbines and solar panels as well as the energy infrastructure that stores and transports electricity.
Copper is second only to silver in terms of thermal and electricity conductivity, making the metal especially suited to electrical cabling and wiring. On average, clean energy systems consume around five times more copper than those used in traditional power generation.
LithiumLithium is among the minerals currently in highest demand, with supply set to triple between 2021 and 2030. The metal is the key component of lithium-ion batteries, used to power many EVs and energy storage systems.
Light and highly reactive, lithium has a unique ability to store large amounts of energy. However, it’s also finite, has an energy-intensive mining process and can be difficult to recycle. Many challenges lie ahead to scale up and make lithium supply sustainable.
CobaltJust like lithium, cobalt is a critical material that’s used widely in rechargeable batteries. Previously, most cobalt had been used in mobile phones and laptops, however this has changed recently with EV batteries now constituting the largest single user of the metal.
The growth of the EV market will see demand for cobalt more than quadruple between 2020 and 2050. It’s hoped that a significant chunk of this demand will be met with recycled cobalt, which, compared to lithium, is easier to extract from used batteries.
NickelNickel is a versatile metal with many applications in renewable energy infrastructure. Like lithium and cobalt, it can be found in lithium-ion batteries, as well as offshore wind farm equipment, green hydrogen electrolysers and geothermal power stations.
The metal’s strong resistance to atmospheric corrosion makes it suitable for use in extreme environments. While geothermal energy is yet to be used on a mass scale, the IEA expects that the renewable energy source will account for up to 80% of nickel demand by 2040.
Rare earth elementsRare-earth elements (REEs) are a set of seventeen metallic elements that includes the fifteen lanthanides as well as scandium and yttrium. While these metals are actually quite common, they are rarely found in large enough quantities to be extracted economically.
Several rare earths are key to energy transition. These include neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium and terbium, which are used to manufacture the permanent magnets found in the generators of wind turbines and EVs.
Scaling up the supply of critical mineralsEven under the least ambitious emissions pathway, the supply of critical minerals for the energy transition will need to increase dramatically. Scaling up supply brings several challenges, including resource shortages, trade restrictions and new environmental concerns associated with extraction.
While many minerals already have an established recycling infrastructure, others like lithium are yet to be recycled on a mass scale. In these cases, it’s generally accepted that new mining jobs and projects will be required to meet the immediate needs of the transition.
The demand for these minerals is set to create thousands of new exploration jobs in the short and medium term as secondary production is scaled. Increasing investment in minerals recycling will also generate a large number of jobs in renewable energy.
Beyond the balancing act of primary and secondary production, there are also geopolitical hurdles to overcome. International collaboration between governments and corporations will underpin the transition, with key players working together closely to develop sustainable supply chains.
Only through a holistic approach that considers the combined impact of minerals sourcing on the environment and communities that produce these key materials will it be possible to transition successfully to renewable energy.
Petroplan: supporting the energy transitionWe’re proud to play our part in energy transition and stand ready to support employers looking to recruit for a wide range of mining jobs as well as jobs in renewable energy. Contact us today to find out how we can help with your talent acquisition process.