The Oil Industrys Best-kept Secret - A book full of inspiration and advice

Susan Elston

Senior Vice President Offshore and Marine Sodexo UK & I

My very first ambition was to be a teacher. I’d no aspirations to be in business or management. Joining the oil & gas industry was the single biggest thing I have ever done in my life. I knew that it was a challenge and that I’d have to learn everything from scratch, but I also knew I had found my home in this business – I had a real affinity. When I found myself on the Board of Oil & Gas UK I remember thinking I would be found out any day, that someone would say: “No, sorry, we just want you to come and pour the coffee!” I found it remarkable to have a voice – and to experience a sense of inclusivity – at that level.

Susan Elston began her working life in the civil service but quickly realised it wasn’t for her.

Instead, she embarked on a career in the hospitality industry and then retail catering – whilst also completing a master’s degree in business administration.

She now has many years’ experience in the offshore industry: she became Managing Director of Offshore and Remote Sites for Sodexo in 2011 and went on to be appointed Senior Vice President for its Offshore and Marine business in the UK and Ireland.

Susan has also served as a board member of Oil & Gas UK and of two charities, Foyer and Inspire Ventures.

Joined civil service

National Training Manager RHM retail

Masters of Business Administration Teeside University

1978

1999

1984

“I’m a big supporter of sponsors, especially for women”

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THE OIL INDUSTRY'S BEST-KEPT SECRET

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