KAZAKHSTAN ENERGY WEEK - 2025
Shell Kazakhstan❜s Country Chair: Purpose-driven leadership in a transforming energy landscape
Exclusive interview for Petroleum Journal with Suzanne Coogan, Country Chair, Shell Kazakhstan
Ms. Coogan, you recently took on the role of Country Chair of Shell in Kazakhstan. The company is one of the key investors in the country’s oil and gas sector. Could you tell us about your professional journey that led you here?
– I joined Shell in 2006 as a geophysicist through the Graduate Programme in the UK, after completing a BSc in Science at University College Dublin and an MSc in Exploration Geophysics at Leeds University. My interest in science began early — as a child, I dreamed of becoming an astronaut. That curiosity about space and the natural world led me to study geology and geophysics, and ultimately to a career in energy.
Since joining Shell, I’ve had the opportunity to work across Europe, Asia, and North America, taking on both technical and leadership roles spanning exploration, development, and operations. Most recently, I served as Vice President Exploration and Namibia, and prior to that, Vice President Brunei.
Each chapter of my journey has deepened my appreciation for what it means to deliver energy safely, reliably, and responsibly. I’ve seen firsthand how strong partnerships—with governments, industry, and communities—can unlock long-term value and drive meaningful progress.
These principles are deeply embedded in Shell’s approach in Kazakhstan, where we’ve been a trusted partner for over 30 years. We’ve invested more than $18 billion, operate world-class assets such as Kashagan and Karachaganak, hold a share in the Caspian Pipeline Consortium, and actively contribute to the country’s energy leadership.
Stepping into the role of Country Chair for Shell in Kazakhstan is both a privilege and a responsibility. I’m excited to build on Shell’s legacy here and explore new opportunities in innovation, exploration, and the energy transition. Kazakhstan holds immense potential, and I look forward to working closely with our partners and the Government to help shape a sustainable energy future.
What are your first impressions of Kazakhstan and the Shell Kazakhstan team? What inspires you in the oil and gas sector, especially in countries like Kazakhstan?
– As a geoscientist, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the natural environment, and Kazakhstan’s diverse landscapes — from its wide steppes to its mountain ranges — are particularly striking!
Since arriving, I’ve been welcomed with genuine warmth—from colleagues, partners, and wider stakeholders. What struck me immediately was the deep sense of pride and purpose within the Shell Kazakhstan team. They are talented, driven, and truly committed to making a meaningful impact—not just within our operations, but in the communities we serve.
What inspires me most is the scale of impact we can have when we operate responsibly. In Kazakhstan, that means operating safely, fostering innovation, creating opportunities for local talent, and contributing to national prosperity. It’s this blend of technical challenge and societal relevance that keeps me passionate about our work.
How do you see an effective leader in the energy sector?
– I believe effective leadership in the energy sector starts with empowering teams — giving people the clarity, trust, and autonomy they need to take ownership and deliver results. My leadership philosophy is rooted in encouraging diverse perspectives, fostering collaboration, and staying focused on long-term value.
I’m passionate about building inclusive cultures where people feel heard, respected, and motivated to do their best work. That’s especially important in our sector, where the technical challenges are complex and societal expectations are evolving rapidly. Leaders must be able to navigate uncertainty, adapt with purpose, and inspire confidence in the path forward.
Kazakhstan is at a pivotal moment in its energy journey, and I’m proud to be part of it. I look forward to working with our team and partners to build on Shell’s legacy and help unlock new opportunities in exploration, innovation, and the energy transition.
What is Shell’s current strategic role in Kazakhstan’s energy sector?
– Kazakhstan is a cornerstone of Shell’s global upstream portfolio — a country where world-class resources meet world-class ambition. Our presence here reflects a long-term commitment to delivering energy the world needs today, while also supporting the country on its path toward a lower – carbon future.
A key part of this is advancing Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS). In 2021, Shell signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with KazMunayGas to explore the feasibility of a pilot project. This collaboration brings our global expertise together with Kazakhstan’s ambition to reduce emissions, reflecting our belief that future competitiveness lies not only in producing energy securely, but also in developing the low-carbon solutions that will define tomorrow’s energy landscape.
Through our participation in major projects like Kashagan, Karachaganak, and the Caspian Pipeline Consortium, Shell plays a key role in supporting Kazakhstan’s position as a reliable global energy supplier. These assets are not only technically significant — they are strategically vital to energy security and economic development.
But our role goes beyond production. We are deeply invested in developing local talent, transferring advanced technologies, and building resilient supply chains. We believe that long-term success is built on strong partnerships—with Government, industry, and communities.
How does Shell work with Kazakhstani partners and the government in developing local content and transferring advanced technologies?
– At Shell, partnership isn’t just a principle — it’s is in our DNA and defines how we operate. In Kazakhstan, we work hand-in-hand with our joint venture partners and government stakeholders to strengthen local content and build long-term capability across the energy sector.
This means supporting Kazakh suppliers and contractors, investing in workforce development, and creating meaningful opportunities for local talent. Through NCOC, more than 90% of the workforce today are Kazakhstanis, and the company has directed billions of dollars directed to local suppliers — helping to build capacity and competitiveness in the market. At KPO, a similar journey is underway: almost the entire workforce is nationalized, including leadership roles, while local companies now deliver a majority of the goods and services needed for operations.
These efforts go hand -in-hand with advanced technology transfer – from digital innovation to complex sour-gas reinjection – ensuring global know-how is blended with deep local expertise. One standout example is the geochemical laboratory in Atyrau, developed in collaboration with KazMunaiGas. This state-of-the-art facility has become a regional hub for advanced research and a symbol of what shared value creation can look like.
Ultimately, whether through NCOC or KPO, the goal is the same: to combine international expertise with Kazakhstani talent and suppliers, creating a stronger and more future-ready energy sector for the country.
What are your expectations from Shell's participation in Kazenergy Week 2025? What key topics, in your opinion, should be the focus of attention at this venue in 2025?
– Kazenergy Week is a flagship event for Kazakhstan’s energy sector — a space where industry, government, and society come together to shape the future. For Shell, it’s an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, share global expertise, and listen to the priorities of our partners and stakeholders.
This year’s theme, “A New Energy Order: Focus on Middle Powers,” is timely and relevant. Kazakhstan is uniquely positioned to influence regional energy dynamics while advancing its own transition. We expect discussions to focus on energy security, decarbonisation, and the role of innovation in building a resilient energy system.
We’re also proud to support the Women Energy Club, which will host a dedicated session during the forum. Empowering women in energy is not just a social priority — it’s a strategic one. At Shell, we believe diverse leadership drives better outcomes, and we’re committed to helping build an inclusive energy future.
Kazenergy Week is more than a conference — it’s a catalyst for progress. We look forward to contributing to the conversations that will define the next chapter of Kazakhstan’s energy journey.
How do you assess the current situation with women’s involvement in the energy sector, including in Kazakhstan?
– The energy sector has made strides in gender diversity, but there’s still work to be done — especially in technical and leadership roles. In Kazakhstan, I’ve met many talented and driven women who are shaping the future of the industry. There’s a strong foundation here, and the potential to build something even greater.
At Shell, this approach to diversity and inclusion isn’t just a core value that we uphold and are proud of — it a business imperative. We know that diverse teams make better decisions, drive innovation, and deliver stronger results. That’s why we’re proud to have more than 50% women on Shell Kazakhstan’s leadership team — a powerful example of what’s possible when inclusion is prioritized.
We’re committed to creating an environment where women can thrive — through mentoring, career development, and visible role models. But it’s not just about representation; it’s about impact. When women lead, industries evolve. And when young women see those leaders, they’re inspired to follow.
As the mother of three young children, age 6, 9 and 11, I have personally experienced how important it is that parents are supported in balancing both work and family life. Shell’s global maternity and paternity policy ensures that all parents have the ability to take parental leave and return to a supportive workplace environment.
Kazakhstan’s energy sector is evolving, and women have a vital role to play in shaping its future. At Shell, we’re here to support that journey — every step of the way.
What advice would you give to young women starting their careers in the energy sector?
– Start by building a strong foundation in your core discipline — whether that’s engineering, geoscience, finance, or another area. Deep technical knowledge gives you confidence and credibility, and it’s something you’ll rely on throughout your career.
Seek out mentors, ask questions, and stay curious. Leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about listening, learning, and helping others succeed. Step into leadership opportunities even before you feel fully ready. You’ll be surprised by what you’re capable of.
And most importantly, don’t hesitate to ask for help. It’s a strength, not a weakness. Your voice matters. Your ideas matter. And your career is yours to shape.