FEMALE LEADERSHIP IN KAZAKHSTAN’S ENERGY INDUSTRY
«At ExxonMobil, We Know that when Women Move Forward, the World Moves with them.» – Cecile Rauline
Interview with Cécile Rauline, Managing Director of ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Inc.
– Our readers will see this interview on the eve of the International Women’s Day celebration. As such, we would like to focus on the role of women, especially in traditionally maledominated industries such as oil and gas. As you look back on the past eight months of leading ExxonMobil in Kazakhstan, could you share your thoughts on the experience and challenges you’ve encountered in your role as a woman in leadership?
– First, allow me to congratulate all your women readers on International Women’s Day and wish them continued strength, resilience, and success in breaking barriers and making significant contributions across diverse fields.
I am very honored to lead one of the most important affiliates in ExxonMobil’s global portfolio, which oversees our interests in the giant Tengiz and North Caspian Sea projects and the Caspian Pipeline Consortium – three flagship projects of the Republic.
Tengiz site visitOur affiliate in Kazakhstan has truly evolved alongside the Republic, embarking on its journey in 1993, just two years after the country declared its Independence. Proudly we stand as one of the largest and long-term investors with investments surpassing $29 billion to date. Last year we celebrated our 30 years of presence in the country.
Together with our partners and operators we are committed to safe and environmentally responsible operations. Leveraging the strong partnerships we have built with the Republic we are working hard to unlock the full potential of the country’s world-class resources.
Certainly, we experience both highs and lows on this journey. However, I feel grateful to work alongside an exceptionally talented and inclusive team of professionals within our organization and beyond. This collective effort turns every challenge into an opportunity for even higher excellence.
– Cécile, could you share your perspective on workplace diversity, particularly within the context of men and women? How do you define it in your own words?
– Workplace diversity, specifically concerning men and women, is about creating an environment where both men and women bring unique perspectives, experiences, and skills. By proactively supporting and developing women leaders, we unlock previously unexplored pools of talent, making significant contributions to both our organizations and the broader industry. Women leaders bring a broad range of diverse ideas, viewpoints, and experiences, and thus can offer new perspectives when approaching challenges and opportunities.
To unlock the full potential of diversity, organizations must embrace inclusivity. This involves recognizing and appreciating differences while ensuring that every individual’s voice is heard.
Today, women hold positions across the industry, working as engineers and scientists, both on rigs and platforms, and within refineries. In my own career journey, I’ve witnessed numerous women successfully find a balance between their personal, family and career aspirations. All around the world women contribute significantly holding executive roles where their influence shapes the future of the industry.
ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Inc. team building
– Could you please tell us what does ExxonMobil do to empower and support women?
– In 2005 ExxonMobil launched its Women’s Economic Opportunity Initiative — a global effort that helps women fulfill their economic potential and drive economic and social change in their communities.
We’re also committed to partnering with women-owned businesses globally, with an annual procurement spend of half a billion dollars.
Additionally, we foster participation in STEM careers, prioritizing science, technology, engineering, and math, as a means to unlock opportunities for young girls and women.
Internally we have various initiatives targeted at developing future women leaders, with a strong focus on networking, mentoring and developing allyship. Establishing a workplace that is inclusive and empowering is a collective effort involving contributions from both men and women, ensuring that every individual can thrive and achieve their maximum potential.
At ExxonMobil we know that when women move forward, the world moves with them.
Bozzhyra, Mangystau oblast, Kazakhstan– What motivated your choice of pursuing a career in the oil and gas industry?
– I have always been a very curious child with eclectic interests. While my parents pursued STEM studies, I wanted to be a reporter to ‘see the world’ and decided to study Political Sciences as undergraduate. I got a first internship in the industry – not really in line with my initial plans – and quickly realized I loved working with people from very diverse backgrounds. I then went to business school and when looking for a job, joined Oil & Gas as it could offer me to ‘see the world’ while being part of an industry which was, and remains, critical to people daily lives.
– I see you like traveling. Have you had a chance to explore other places in Kazakhstan and what are your other hobbies?
– Over my career I have now lived in seven different countries, on four continents – living abroad means I only see my family a couple of times a year, but as an avid traveler I continue to enjoy discovering new places – I recently discovered Mangystau on a camping trip, definitely one of the most amazing places in the world! My other main hobby is classical music, either on stage or in the audience, and I am very glad I live close to the Astana Opera, enjoy great performances and discover Kazakh composers.