Five minutes with Marie Hayler
Job title: Operations & Maintenance Supervisor
Location: Northampton Fuel Terminal
Quick fire round:
First job: Transport Clerk at Taylor Barnard
First car: Vauxhall Astra
Favourite TV show: Game of Thrones
Books or podcasts: Books
Favourite music (artist/band): The Script
First holiday destination after Coronavirus: Malta
What was your ambition when you were at school?
To become a Professional rugby player as I was already semi-professional at Worcester. An extremely serious knee injury curtailed my career unfortunately but I did manage to achieve 2 caps for England.
What made you want to get into the industry, and how did you achieve it?
I started in the industry initially by taking on a temporary position for maternity cover. During this time, I was extremely successful and was offered a permanent position at the end of my temporary contract. This then led me into the Terminal environment where I became a Terminal Supervisor for 13 years. This role gave me opportunity to gain knowledge of Control of Works and Maintenance activities which has led me to my current role of Operations and Maintenance Supervisor.
Can you explain what your job entails on a day to day basis?
My main responsibility is to ensure safe and reliable operation of the Terminal for the client, so this means planning maintenance activities and repairs plus any potential shutdowns that may be required to facilitate the works. I also carry out procurement for the Terminal and a variety of other tasks that help the Terminal operate smoothly.
How has the Coronavirus pandemic changed your role and responsibilities and how have you adapted?
My role has not really changed that much as the Terminal is a National Infrastructure site, which means that we have to ensure we are able to operate without interruption. We looked to implement government guidelines and px Group guidance, reducing the personnel onsite to the bare minimum meaning a review of all Maintenance activities on site and prioritising all legislative works to ensure compliance.
What’s your favourite thing about working at px Group?
Since we transitioned to px Group in February 2019, I have been genuinely overwhelmed by the support we have received as a Terminal and also on a personal level. We have a great relationship with the extended team at our head office in Stockton who support the operation and always make you feel part of the team.
Have you ever had a mentor in the industry? If so, what’s the best bit of advice they’ve given you?
My current Terminal Manager Stephen Morris has been by far the best mentor I have had. Even when I am doing some of the less glamorous tasks on site, he always reminds me that I’m working towards my career goals.
What are some of the challenges that you have overcome during your career?
It is no secret that the Energy industry is very male dominant. From a personal point of view, I can say that I have been fortunate to work with some amazingly supportive colleagues over the years who see me as a colleague, rather than as a female. I will continue progressing my career and the next step for me is to become the first female Terminal Manager in the UK.
What has been the highlight of your career to date?
Going from scheduling Tanker deliveries to being promoted to a Shift Supervisor role as there were only two females at this time within this role. It was a great challenge and one I relished. The role was varied and I gained great experience from the role as Shift Supervisor and worked hard to succeed. I enjoyed the learning opportunity which has helped me in my career progression to date.
What’s your top tip for women looking to get into the industry?
Find a stream that you have a genuine interest in, this helps immensely. Plus an employer that is prepared to help and support you to achieve your career goals.
How can the industry make itself more attractive to women?
The Energy industry has undergone significant change over the last decade especially, with more women now in Operational roles. I’ve never felt that gender mattered, if you are competent enough for the role then being male or female is irrelevant. Having worked in this industry for the best part of two decades in various roles and various locations, I am adaptable and would not expect changes to be made to facilitate me.
