

Gopal Panigrahy
Head – Operations (North–East Region)
-
2000 – 2002
Manager - Facility Engineering
ONGC
-
2002 – 2003
Production Superintendent
Neelam Offshore Production Platform, Mumbai- Offshore
-
2003 – 2004
Production Technologist
Daleel Petroleum LLC, Oman
-
2004 – 2005
Process/Commissioning Engineer
Chevron Offshore Project, Angola
-
2008 – 2011
Sr. Production Technologist Reservoir Dept Of E&P Headquarters
OMV Petrom, Romania
-
2011 – 2012
Production Engineering Specialist-Subsurface Team
OXY, Oman
-
2012 – 2012
Team Leader - Production Technology
Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
-
2013 – 2013
Sr. Consultant Petroleum Production Technologist
Shell, Nigeria
-
2013 – 2015
Production Technology Advisor
Wintershall Dea, Libya
-
2015 – 2018
Production Technologist Consultant
TTOPCO
-
2018 – Present
Head – Operations (North–East Region)
HOEC
Gopal has extensive overseas operational experience with exposure to best in class HSE practices, and application of production technology and tools. He leads HOEC’s North-East operations. His ability to multitask combined with his vast technical expertise make him an efficient problem solver.
We caught up with Mr. Gopal Panigrahy for a chat. Below, is the excerpt of the interview with him.
How long have you been with HOEC?
I started in June 2018.
What makes HOEC a special place to work for you?
HOEC has reorganized itself in recent years, and accelerated its growth by tapping every opportunity in the oil and gas private sector. The key focus areas for the company are project development and growing its business portfolio. The unparalleled growth strategy of the company, and a well-structured professional environment has given me an opportunity to achieve my career goals and objectives. I have been given ample opportunity to work independently, implement innovative ideas and improve business processes.
Which projects have been the most meaningful to you? Why?
HOEC has vastly expanded its business portfolio in the North-East, and the region has remained a major source of revenue for the company. The company’s Dirok development in Assam is very special to me. It has built world-class onshore gas facilities in the Dirok field, and banks on state-of-the-art technologies. The project’s recognition at the national level is commendable, and it gives me tons of motivation to embrace the challenges involved in North-East operations.
If you weren’t in this profession what would you be?
I have enjoyed my career in oil and gas. From the time that I can remember, I have always loved the subject, and have been fortunate enough to work all over the globe. During my career spanning 30 years, I have developed an obsession for oil and gas. If I were not an industry professional, I would have taken the route of teaching the subject to future Oil & Gas leaders, and fulfilled my dreams through their accomplishments.
Since you began your career, what’s changed the most about the Oil & Gas industry?
A big change has occurred on the technological front. The industry has embraced digital technologies and automation. This collaboration between man and machine has made real-time operation and business decision-making a possibility. Advancements in technology have stretched not only to geologically challenging environments such as deep sea and arctic conditions, but also to unconventional resources like shale oil, CBM and tight gas. Though a production boom adversely affected crude price, it remained a boon to energy consumers.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
A missed opportunity is a lost opportunity. It may cost dearly. Hence, keep your antenna sharp to grab all the opportunities that come your way.
Educational Qualification
B. Sc. Mechanical Engineering
MBA