WISTA member Vanessa Price is currently responsible for operating all BG Exploration and Production liquids worldwide. Through dedication and her attendance at numerous courses, culminating in a Business Management Diploma in 1997, Vanessa has risen rapidly through the ranks.

But it might not have been so, had she not taken advantage of an opportunity back in 1994. At the time she was secretary to the Oil Manager in the Supply and Marketing division for BG Exploration and Production. "Although I enjoyed my work, I knew that I wanted something more, I wanted a career."

She applied for the job of junior oil operator and persuaded her manager to give her a chance. He suggested a six week trial. After three weeks Vanessa was told that the trial was over, and that she had exceeded all expectations.

Vanessa is now involved in managing the operations of liquids produced from over 20 fields which principally consist of Crude Oil, Condensate and Liquid Petroleum Gas.

It is Vanessa's responsibility to establish, develop, manage and control systems for the scheduling, despatching and lifting of these liquids.

In 1997, BG Exploration and Production completed the Armada Project, a three field operation which produces around 20.000 barrels a day.

As Armada Operations Co-ordinator, Vanessa has daily responsibility for implementing 23 agreements. She has to prepare and maintain production forecasts and availability, monthly stock statements, and the Armada offtake reports for crude, condensate and LPG. She also calculates and agrees prices with all BG Exploration and Production customers, and issues invoices for payment.

"Within my operations role, I also deal with quantity/quality inspection and agents, arrange shipping documentation, organise letters of credit, manage and settle contractual claims and disputes on quality, quantity and demur- rage."

"I have always found people throughout the industry very friendly, willing to give help and advice at any time, and through organisations like WISTA, we can continue to give support and share knowledge in the future."