Repsol Sinopec – a star placement provider

We are delighted to have been recognised for the quality of student placements we provide with an industry award nomination, made on our behalf by Robert Gordon University student Stephanie Barclay.

Held annually and run by the Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, The Northern Star Business Awards recognises companies around the North-east for exceptional accomplishments.

The ‘Student Placement Award’ goes to the organisation that has offered the best placement experience to a student. Stephanie, who is now in her final year of a BA (Hons) International Business Management degree at RGU, spent the 2016-17 year as part of our Business Planning team.

Stephanie said:

“I have been extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to undergo a placement year at Repsol Sinopec Resources UK and be exposed to the many facets of business.”

“My placement year has given me a well-rounded experience which will truly benefit me in both my final year of studies at RGU, and in all aspects of my future career. Not only have I gained an in-depth insight into the workings of an Oil & Gas operator but I have also undergone significant professional development during my time in the company.”

“I was given a high level of autonomy from the outset, with responsibility for delivery of management reports and analysis that were seen by the Management Team and by the company’s shareholders.

“I have contributed to high-profile pieces of work such as the Company Business Plan and Re-Forecast, and have also had the opportunity to lead some individual projects myself, such as updating our Infrastructure Code of Practice and ensuring it was suitable for publishing on our website. It has been great to have a real sense of ownership of my own project.

“On top of this I had practical experience of visiting an oil rig, which was incredibly beneficial as it helped me to further my understanding of the work I was doing in the office, and received additional training in the use of economics software.

“I have been supported and encouraged, not only by my immediate supervisor and by my mentor, but also the whole Planning & Business Performance team who have all been willing to provide help and coaching so that I can further my knowledge and complete my work to the best of my ability. My opinion is always valued which means I have become much more comfortable in putting forward my own suggestions.

“Furthermore my colleagues have all taken a genuine interest in my development and always offer other ways in which they can help me to maximise the value of my experience at Repsol Sinopec.

“As well as learning a great deal about the business, I’ve also also learned how to manage my time more effectively and the importance of an eye for detail. Finally I’ve also seen a significant improvement in my soft skills and was even given the responsibility of recruiting the next placement student!”

Steve Moir, Planning Manager said:

“Our placement position is of significant value to us and this is demonstrated by the fact that it has been in place in the business for over 20 years. We are delighted to be shortlisted for this award in recognition of us providing a good placement which we always strive to ensure is mutually beneficial.”

“Stephanie has made a huge contribution over the last twelve months. She started in June last year and took on responsibility for weekly and monthly reporting. As her knowledge quickly grew she got involved in many other areas of Planning & Performance Management. It has been very rewarding to watch the growth in her confidence, ownership and accountability and I wish her all the best with her future career.”

The torch has now been passed from Stephanie to Fiona McWilliam who has joined us in the placement position for the current academic year.

Fiona added:

“I was lucky enough to have a two month handover period with Stephanie, who delivered valuable training."

"To see the corporate exposure and well-rounded experience that Stephanie and previous placement students have had throughout their placement year within the business is really exciting for me. I am hoping to get exposure within different departments as I feel that this would provide the best opportunity to prepare myself for my final year of studies and future professional career. “

The winners of the awards are to be announced at the Chamber’s annual awards evening at the AECC, Aberdeen on Thursday, October 5.