Obiageri Amaliri’s Journey And Advice For Aspiring Women Leaders

In this exclusive interview with Naija News, we sit down with Obiageri Amaliri, a distinguished business analyst and procurement expert who currently serves as the Deputy Vice President of Procurements at GENESIS Energy Group. With about 13 years of diverse experience spanning the oil and gas and renewable energy sectors, Amaliri has established herself as a formidable force in the industry. Known for her strategic sourcing, supply chain management, and business development prowess, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional passion, resilience, and professionalism. Join us as she shares her insights on leadership in the energy sector, offers advice to aspiring professionals, and discusses her journey and the evolving landscape of procurement.

Amaliri has an MBA from Sheffield Hallam University UK, MSC in Oil and Gas Engineering from university of Aberdeen UK, and BEng Chemical Engineering from Igbinedion University Okada.

What sparked your interest in procurement and business analytics within the energy sector?

My career started in the upstream oil and gas sector as a service provider, with initial interests in drilling and reservoir simulations. My first job pivoted me towards business development, procurement, strategic sourcing, and engineering project management, and eventually into Business Analytics. This journey, combined with my engineering background, provided a solid foundation for my current role, balancing technical expertise and commercial acumen, setting me up for leadership positions.

Can you outline the pivotal moments in your career that led you to your current position at GENESIS Energy?

My career progression involved various roles, starting as a Project Engineer and moving through Sales and Business Development, Commercial Management, and Procurement. Each role contributed uniquely to my skill set. Notable achievements include supporting the Shell Trans Niger Pipeline project and securing significant contracts for various energy companies, which collectively prepared me for my executive role at GENESIS Energy.

What has been the most significant challenge in your career, and how did you overcome it?

Facing challenges head-on has always been my approach. My education in engineering, a male-dominated field, posed significant hurdles, but I embraced these challenges and grew stronger. Viewing challenges as opportunities for growth has been crucial in shaping my resilience and professional development.

How has procurement in the energy industry changed since you began your career, and how have you adapted?

The procurement landscape has evolved significantly with technology advancements like CRM and ERP software. Initially, everything was manual, but now procurement and supply chain management are critical components of global productivity, especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. I’ve adapted by continuously updating my skills and leveraging technology to enhance efficiency.

What strategies do you use to maintain a balance between your demanding career and personal life?

Prioritizing and delegating tasks are key strategies. Effective delegation allows me to rely on my team, enhancing both professional efficiency and personal well-being. Leadership is about empowering your team and managing your time wisely, which has been crucial for my success.

Can you describe a difficult decision you made that significantly impacted your career?

Switching from core engineering to commercial management and procurement was a pivotal decision. Despite the promising opportunities in the oil and gas sector, my passion for the commercial side drove me to take this risk, which ultimately paid off well.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to leadership roles in the energy sector?

Stay curious and embrace feedback. Set SMART goals and strive to achieve them. Networking is also vital; building and maintaining professional relationships can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable insights, enhancing career growth.

How do you ensure continuous learning and professional development in your field?

I commit to taking relevant courses annually and staying updated with industry articles and journals. Engaging with professional networks and platforms helps me exchange knowledge and receive constructive feedback, ensuring ongoing professional growth and relevance.

What qualities do you think distinguish exceptional leaders in the energy sector, and how have you developed these in yourself?

Integrity, accountability, motivation, and collaboration are key qualities. Throughout my career, I’ve embraced teamwork, taken responsibility for decisions, and fostered a culture of accountability and performance. My leadership philosophy focuses on clear communication and strong relationships.

What are your future career goals, and how do you plan to achieve them?

I aim to collaborate with female entrepreneurs and leaders in emerging fields like AI, hydrogen fuel cells, and renewable energy. Being actively involved in these cutting-edge areas is crucial, and I am committed to contributing to these discussions and ensuring women’s participation in shaping the future.