How Hesham’s Passion for Math and Physics Shaped His Career!
The world can rest assured that energy companies that do not start building ESG portfolios, to comply with the growing stringent environmental regulations will vanish by 2030. This is totally applicable to oil and gas companies going into the new energy landscape. Thus, collaborating with startups, and technology innovators, and adopting circular economy practices will also be key differentiators.
Mentoring and building special programs for young professionals has always been the passion of one such collaborative leader, Hesham Zubari. He was instrumental in setting up the first SPE Energy Summit in 2019 and the first SPE Unconventional Reservoirs in the Middle East Symposium in 2018, both in Bahrain. He also played a key role with the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Negotiation Team to build a JV, Tatweer Petroleum, in Bahrain in 2009, involving US-based Occidental Petroleum and UAE-based Mubadala Petroleum.
Recognizing his contributions to the scientific community, he was honored with the SPE Regional Award for MENA in 2021 and an Honorary Industrial Doctorate by the International Maritime Club (IMC) in association with the European International University. The guiding principle for Hesham is: “It is not how many times you fall, or how hard you get hit, but how fast you get back on your feet and keep moving on.”
Journey through Petroleum
Hesham, a seasoned professional with over 38 years in the oil, gas, and energy sectors, embarked on his journey as a reservoir simulation engineer after graduating with a degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin in 1986. Born and raised in the vibrant city of Manama, Bahrain, he was immersed in a diverse and cosmopolitan culture that instilled in him a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and intellectual curiosity from an early age.
A Cambridge certified CTO, Hesham initially propelled into the field of Petroleum Engineering by a scholarship offered by the Bahrain National Oil Company for his outstanding academic performance in high school, Hesham’s passion for the discipline blossomed over time, particularly in the realm of numerical simulation. Combining his love for math, physics, chemistry, and graphical visualization, he found immense satisfaction in the ability to mathematically represent complex oil and gas reservoirs, generating accurate production forecasts—a process he deemed akin to magic.
Throughout his career, he held various pivotal roles, including Deputy CEO at Tatweer Petroleum and Senior Advisor to the Minister of Oil in the Kingdom of Bahrain, before assuming the position of Chief AI and Innovation Officer at Dragon Oil. His passion for the energy sector is deeply rooted in his fascination with energy exploration and its critical role in global prosperity and development.
Driven by his belief in leveraging technological advancements to optimize energy production and ensure sustainable practices, Hesham remains motivated by the positive impact that such endeavors can have on the world. He firmly believes that loving the work one does is paramount to success, a principle that has guided him through a journey marked by continuous learning, dedication, and a commitment to the prosperity of his country and its people.
Trailblazing Innovations in Energy
Throughout his illustrious career, Hesham has been at the forefront of implementing cutting-edge technologies in the oil, gas, and energy sectors in the Kingdom of Bahrain. A standout example dates back to 2001 when he spearheaded the testing of a pioneering single-well Alkaline Surfactant and Polymer (ASP) technique. This groundbreaking initiative, the first of its kind in the region, aimed to reverse the wettability of oil-wet rocks, thereby enhancing oil production.
Documented in a published paper titled “Single Well Tests to Determine the Efficiency of Alkaline-Surfactant Injection in a Highly Oil-Wet Limestone Reservoir,” the project garnered significant recognition, being cited 34 times, particularly in recent years.
Another notable milestone in Hesham’s career was his pivotal role in forming the JV, Tatweer Petroleum, in Bahrain in 2009. Collaborating with US-based Occidental Petroleum and UAE-based Mubadala Petroleum, this venture injected $4 billion into the Bahrain field, leading to a substantial increase in production and fostering the development of a pool of talented Bahraini professionals who now lead the company.
In 2019, he took proactive steps to explore Energy Efficiency models, leading to the initiation of the first Guaranteed Energy Contracting Contract pilot project in Bahrain. In collaboration with eight different ministries and entities and with the full support of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, this project successfully reduced energy and water consumption in four government buildings by 28%, all at no capital cost to the government.
Additionally, Hesham has been instrumental in advancing sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Notably, in 2017, he led a project to utilize wastewater from oilfields for irrigation, employing the reed beds concept and contributing to the exploration and testing of potential sustainability initiatives for Bahrain’s ESG program.
Beyond his technical contributions, Hesham has also made significant strides in knowledge sharing and industry leadership. He has organized and chaired numerous industry events and has authored 14 papers on managing mature fields and innovation in the oil and gas industry.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he received the SPE Regional Award for MENA in 2021. Most recently, he was honored with Honorary Industrial Doctorate recognition by the International Maritime Club (IMC) in association with the European International University, further underscoring his remarkable achievements and leadership in the field.
Leadership Anchored in Ownership
Hesham’s leadership style revolves around cultivating ownership within his team members through a strategic framework of clear and achievable objectives coupled with adequate resource provision and support. Central to his approach is the promotion of open communication and a collaborative environment where each team member’s voice is valued and respected. Hesham recognizes that building ownership necessitates alignment, ensuring that individuals with the right competencies occupy appropriate roles to drive progress effectively.
In navigating complex scenarios, Hesham places a premium on flexibility and adaptability, enabling his team to take ownership and navigate unforeseen challenges with adept risk management strategies. Regular feedback mechanisms and a commitment to continuous improvement are integral components of his leadership philosophy.
While recognizing the necessity for tough decisions at times to propel team progress, he draws a clear distinction between leadership and management, subscribing to John Quincy Adams’ notion that true leadership lies in inspiring others to dream, learn, do, and evolve. This ethos underscores his leadership approach, characterized by inspiration, motivation, ownership, and empowerment.
Driving Innovation and Collaboration
Hesham is deeply committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence within the oil and gas industry, exemplified by his proactive involvement in various initiatives aimed at knowledge exchange and professional development. As an active member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), he has played a pivotal role in initiating and supporting programs that facilitate engagement, learning, and mentorship.
This includes the establishment of student chapters, and the organization of workshops, and conferences that serve as platforms for industry experts, young professionals, and students to come together and exchange ideas.
Within his organization, Hesham champions a culture of continuous learning by advocating for further education, certifications, and active participation in industry events. By providing access to resources, mentorship opportunities, such as those offered by SPE, and hands-on experience, he endeavors to nurture a cadre of innovative and competent professionals. He firmly believes that involving young professionals in projects and imbuing them with a sense of ownership is the most effective pathway to learning and development.
Incorporating innovation into organizational processes requires a nuanced understanding of barriers and the strategic deployment of key elements such as internal and external partnerships, stage-gating processes, and the cultivation of innovation ambassadors and boundary spanners across the company. Hesham has documented this pragmatic approach in a recent SPE paper titled “Unlocking Innovation Potential: A Pragmatic Approach to Overcoming Barriers and Fostering Collaboration,” available on www.onepetro.com
He actively encourages students and young professionals to explore resources such as spe.org and engage with professional societies to facilitate their continuous growth and development within the industry. Through his unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence, Hesham continues to make a profound impact on the trajectory of the oil and gas sector.
Commitment to Continuous Learning and Industry Engagement
Hesham recognizes the paramount importance of staying abreast of the latest trends and advancements in the oil and gas industry to drive continuous improvement and innovation. Leveraging a multifaceted approach to continuous learning, he actively engages in professional development through various channels.
As a longstanding member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) and having served on its Board of Directors, Hesham has access to a wealth of knowledge and professional networks within the community. Additionally, he maintains active engagement with other prominent professional societies such as AAPG, SEG, and EAGE, participating in technical committees and advisory boards. His commitment to staying updated extends to regularly reading industry publications, research papers, and reports.
In recognition of his pursuit of excellence, Hesham obtained a prestigious certification from Cambridge University, further solidifying his expertise and leadership capabilities as a CTO. This certification underscores his dedication to continuous learning and his commitment to leveraging advanced knowledge to drive innovation within his organization.
Embracing the opportunities afforded by remote online learning and virtual meetings, especially in light of the pandemic, Hesham has adapted his approach to ensure continuous learning and professional engagement. He has developed a habit of visiting platforms like onepetro.com regularly, enabling him to browse through the latest publications and identify intriguing additions to the industry.
Guided by the principle espoused by Gandhi, “Learn as if you were to live forever,” Hesham underscores the importance of a perpetual commitment to learning and growth. He emphasizes that in today’s digital age, there is no excuse for failing to stay updated with the latest technologies and news, reaffirming his dedication to remaining at the forefront of industry advancements.
Navigating Challenges
Hesham reflects on his career journey and acknowledges the plethora of challenges and barriers he has encountered, particularly in the realm of introducing organizational change. Throughout his professional trajectory, he has consistently faced resistance to change, often stemming from personal conflicts and individuals prioritizing self-interest over organizational or national objectives. However, it was his persistence and resilience that enabled him to surmount these obstacles.
In retrospect, Hesham views these challenges as formative experiences that have shaped his personality and contributed to his success. From an early age, he learned to channel negativity into positivity and to view hurdles as opportunities for growth and development. He attributes much of his strength and determination to his ability to overcome adversity.
Amidst the challenges, Hesham acknowledges the invaluable support he has received from colleagues and mentors who have provided unwavering encouragement and guidance. Drawing inspiration from the adage “It is not how many times you fall, or how hard you get hit, but how fast you get back on your feet and keep moving on,” he has remained steadfast in his pursuit of organizational and personal goals.
When coaching and mentoring young professionals, Hesham emphasizes the importance of aiming high, maintaining resilience in the face of adversity, and prioritizing long-term objectives over transient obstacles. His experiences serve as a testament to the power of perseverance and the significance of maintaining focus amidst distractions.
Leadership in the Petroleum Community
Hesham’s active involvement with the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) has been marked by a series of impactful initiatives aimed at fostering growth and development within the petroleum community. His leadership has been instrumental in spearheading several notable events and endeavors.
Notably, he played a pivotal role in organizing the inaugural SPE Energy Summit in 2019 and the first SPE Unconventional Reservoirs in the Middle East Symposium in 2018, both held in Bahrain. These events served as platforms for industry professionals to exchange knowledge and insights on critical topics in the field. Currently, he is in the process of planning a marine-related event in Dubai, aiming to attract significant attention and engagement from stakeholders.
Hesham’s dedication to supporting the Bahrain SPE Chapter has been evident through his efforts to secure its official recognition as a non-governmental organization under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2017.
Additionally, he has contributed to the establishment of student SPE chapters at the University of Bahrain and the Yagshigeldi Kakayev International Oil and Gas University in Turkmenistan, providing invaluable opportunities for students to interact with industry professionals and enhance their skills.
Furthermore, Hesham has chaired numerous conferences and workshops, including Dragon Oil’s GOTECH 2024 conference and the 2019 ME Artificial Lift Conference and Exhibition, among others. These events have facilitated knowledge exchange and showcased the latest technological advancements in the industry.
In recognition of his significant contributions, Hesham was honored with an Honorary Industrial Doctorate by the International Maritime Club (IMC) in association with the European International University, underscoring his dedication to the scientific community. Recently appointed as Chairman of the SPE MENA Regional Advisory Council, he is entrusted with providing strategic guidance for SPE activities and themes in the region, further solidifying his position as a leader in the petroleum community.
Empowering the Future
Hesham’s passion for mentoring and developing young professionals has been a consistent thread throughout his career, rooted in his own experiences as a young professional. He recognizes the critical importance of engaging young professionals with international societies, such as the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), for the future sustainability of the energy industry.
Mentoring, for Hesham, goes beyond just sharing knowledge and experiences; it involves providing comprehensive career guidance and creating opportunities for professional growth. He focuses on helping young professionals identify their strengths and areas for improvement, as well as setting and achieving career goals. Constructive feedback, networking opportunities, and a commitment to continuous learning are the central pillars of his mentoring approach.
Hesham actively involves young professionals in SPE events and challenging projects, allowing them to gain valuable hands-on experience and develop their skills. By creating a supportive and empowering environment, coupled with a sense of ownership, he inspires and motivates young professionals to realize their full potential and succeed in the energy industry. Ultimately, his dedication to mentoring is not only for the benefit of the individuals he mentors but also for the broader advancement of the industry as a whole.
Driving Innovation and Knowledge Exchange
Hesham recognizes the unique nature of oil and gas fields and the importance of documenting and sharing experiences within the industry. He acknowledges the pivotal role of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) in building a comprehensive database of publications, which serves as the backbone of the industry.
To ensure that his technical papers reflect the latest advancements and best practices, he engages in rigorous research and maintains active daily involvement with the industry. He stays updated on current trends and technologies through continuous learning, securing certifications from reputable academic institutions like Cambridge, attending conferences, and participating in committees. Collaboration with peers and experts provides him with diverse perspectives and insights, facilitated by modern tools such as social media.
When preparing technical papers, Hesham emphasizes the importance of having a compelling story to tell, one that can benefit others in the industry. He conducts thorough literature reviews and incorporates the latest research findings, focusing on practical applications and real-world case studies to demonstrate the impact of new technologies and methodologies on oil and gas fields. Peer reviews and feedback from industry professionals play a crucial role in refining and enhancing the quality of his work.
By maintaining a commitment to excellence and staying informed on industry developments, Hesham ensures that his contributions are relevant, innovative, and valuable to the oil and gas community. He also recognizes the significance of AI tools like ChatGPT in accelerating knowledge access and transfer, opening up new opportunities for innovation, research, and collaboration.
Navigating the Energy Sector
Hesham offers valuable advice to professionals in the energy sector, advocating for a mindset of continuous learning, self-development, and innovation. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability, active engagement with industry peers, and a commitment to ethical and sustainable practices.
Highlighting the need to avoid decision traps and groupthink, Hesham encourages professionals to build strong professional networks and remain open to new ideas and technologies. Active participation in societies like SPE, AAPG, EAGE, SEG, IEEE, and others fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Seeking out mentors, taking calculated risks, and prioritizing improvement are essential components of success in the dynamic energy industry. Hesham advises professionals to differentiate between essential and non-essential tasks, challenge the status quo, and avoid complacency.
Maintaining humility, guarding against hubris, and setting ambitious goals are key drivers of personal and professional growth. Professionals are urged to express their honest opinions and remain steadfast in the face of intimidation or groupthink. Ultimately, he underscores the importance of staying committed to one’s goals and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and advancement in the energy sector.
Expanding the ESG Framework
Hesham proposes an expansion of the ESG framework to include Safety and Security of Energy (ESSSG) in response to the evolving landscape of the oil and gas industry. Recognizing the significance of safety in high-risk environments, he advocates for the explicit integration of Safety into the ESG framework. This entails prioritizing the well-being of personnel and communities through stringent safety protocols, ongoing training initiatives, and the adoption of advanced technologies to mitigate accidents.
Moreover, Hesham emphasizes the critical importance of Energy Security in the face of geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions. By incorporating the Security of Energy within the ESG framework, companies are encouraged to invest in resilient infrastructure, diversify energy sources, and implement robust risk management strategies.
Expanding ESG to ESSSG offers a holistic approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges encountered by the oil and gas industry. This enhanced framework not only underscores commitments to sustainability and responsible governance but also ensures operational safety and energy security. Ultimately, it contributes to the development of more resilient and responsible energy systems.
Hesham warns that energy companies failing to adapt and build ESG or ESSSG portfolios to comply with increasingly stringent environmental regulations risk obsolescence by 2030. This underscores the urgency for industry stakeholders to embrace sustainable practices and prioritize safety and security alongside energy production.
Pioneering the Future of the Energy Sector
Hesham highlights the transformative role of AI in revolutionizing the oil and energy sectors, making them more efficient and sustainable. AI’s capabilities enhance safety, optimize operations, enable predictive maintenance, and improve energy management, among other benefits.
By analyzing vast amounts of data, AI identifies inefficiencies, reduces energy consumption, and lowers emissions. It also facilitates the integration of renewable energy sources, monitors environmental conditions, and enhances carbon capture and storage technologies.
Moreover, AI streamlines supply chains, reducing waste and emissions. Leveraging AI promises significant enhancements in operational efficiency and environmental impact reduction, propelling the industry towards a sustainable energy future. Tools like ChatGPT and GenAI offer expedited decision-making processes for critical operations such as drilling optimization and emissions control.and many others.
In the evolving energy landscape, companies that embrace advanced technology, innovation, sustainability, and adaptability will thrive. Those incorporating sustainability programs into their portfolios and leveraging AI gain a competitive edge. Prioritizing an ESG principle, or expanding it to include Safety and Security of Energy (ESSSG), builds trust, resilience, and public acceptance.
Fostering a culture of continuous learning and development enables companies to pivot quickly in response to regulatory changes and market demands. Collaboration with startups, technology innovators, and adopting circular economy practices are key differentiators. Aligning strategies with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrating commitment to reducing carbon footprints will lead the way.
As Charles Darwin noted, it is not the strongest or most intelligent species that survive, but the most responsive to change. Similarly, agility and adaptability will be crucial for survival and success in the future energy landscape. Hesham emphasizes the importance of embracing change and innovation to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead in the energy sector.
Strategic Alignment and Personal Gratitude
Hesham’s strategic involvement in SPE activities reflects a deliberate alignment with his professional goals and organizational objectives. By selecting initiatives that offer mutual benefits, he prioritizes opportunities for knowledge exchange, networking, and professional development essential for staying updated on industry trends and advancements.
Participation in SPE events and committees provides insights into the latest technologies and best practices applicable to his organization’s operations, while also building a strong professional network that fosters collaborations and strategic partnerships.
Furthermore, Hesham’s dedication to introducing young professionals to the world of SPE aligns with his organization’s strategy and goals, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing talent and fostering career progression within the industry.
Hesham expresses gratitude to key figures who have shaped his professional journey, including his family members, who provided a supportive learning environment and served as role models. He acknowledges the invaluable insights and advice from his children, which have informed his approach to supporting young professionals.
On the professional front, he recognizes the contributions of individuals who have played significant roles in shaping his career, both those who supported him and those who presented challenges. He appreciates the lessons learned from each experience, which have contributed to his growth and success.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Hesham finds solace and inspiration in his passions for the arts and cooking. These pursuits serve as outlets to counteract the stress of work, with art holding a particularly significant place in his life, as evidenced by his solo exhibitions and published book on the Epic of Gilgamesh.
His multifaceted interests and experiences enrich his professional journey, reflecting a well-rounded approach to personal and career development.
