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Salient. Victoria University Student Newspaper. Volume 36, Number 21. 5th September 1973
An expanding role for women
An expanding role for women
Like most other industries the oil industry does not have a long record of employing women in executive roles. But today the barriers are coming down.
Anthea Foster represents the new generation of graduates who have proved that they fit very well into many of the jobs traditionally done exclusively by men.
She joined BP a year and a half ago with a degree in economics from Victoria University of Wellington. Starting in the cost accounts section she is now one of a team in Operations Research working on a new planning model embracing the whole of the company's operations. The teamwork aspect especially appeals to her, as does the fact that the work has significant implications for the company's development.
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Anthea Foster
Anthea says operations research is not confined to a restricted area. "One is constantly in touch with what the various branches of the company are doing, how projects are progressing and one is always considering the long-term results of the work. There is also the satisfaction of thinking things through. This appeals to me".
"Flexibility is a primary personal characteristic we seek" saw Kevin Miles, BP's Personnel Manager.
"When we recruit a graduate we have two problems to solve. First we have to project a path of employment two to three years ahead. Then together we have to examine the areas of mutual interest—what the graduate is capable of doing and where he can he progressed in the New Zealand group of companies. However, his first job is normally related to one of his university subjects.
"Our aim is to find people with flexibility. For example an engineer may be expected to use his training in logic to develop marketing operations as well as doing design work in the drawing office.
"Our operations are a vital challenge to those who can adapt to change in occupation, location and outlook."