Texaco people profile: David Spence

My background is in chemistry. I graduated with a Chemistry degree from the University of Manchester in 1987 and got straight to work at a local manufacturing business. Here, I worked as a trainee under the watchful eye of the company’s Head Chemist. Not only was this a fascinating start to my career, but it gave me a strong technical foundation to build from.

My career in Lubricants has given me the opportunity to work in many countries and across a wide range of industry segments. I have had 35 fantastic years working with the Texaco brand, since I started with the company in 1988. I have seen first-hand how our products have continued to play a key role in manufacturing processes and machinery operation. It has been my pleasure to work with some very talented people from a diverse range of cultures. This has been the most fulfilling part of my working life. 

What do you believe Texaco has to offer customers?

Put simply, we have quality products, and we have the right people in place across all of our departments to maximise this product offering. We place great importance on our team of people, with a strong team ethic and a culture that ensures that our people are always supported in doing business the right way. I think this is a massive part of our commitment to being a trusted and reliable partner for our customers.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the industry at the moment?

It is impossible to ignore the various environmental developments that are impacting our customers and the world. Together with the other major energy companies, we all have a part to play as we move to a lower carbon future. Chevron has the capabilities, assets and customer relationships to continue to develop the affordable, reliable, and ever-cleaner energy that enables human progress.

What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?

I always recall a manager saying to me that lots of people can come up with good ideas but very few can make things happen. That was a long time ago and looking back, that is very true. It is always something that I have kept in my mind when I discuss my own ideas, or when supporting other people’s.

I’d like to think that my sense of humour has helped me, although some people may think differently! We spend so much of our lives working, and I think it is really important to be able to enjoy ourselves, while remaining professional.