Meet Gabe Mynheer, Next Generation Deal Making Workshop committee chair.
What is your day job?
I am an Analyst in the Planning and Economics Team at Nexen CNOOC Ltd.
What do you do when you’re not working?
About 10 years ago I was on a family holiday in the South of France and happened to be staying on the route of the Tour de France. Until that point, I had had little interest in cycling. But, inspired by the speeds, support and colourful lycra I decided to venture into the world of cycling and bought myself a road bike – I have been hooked ever since! - There is nothing more satisfying than escaping the hustle and bustle of the city, getting some fresh air and feeling fit. I also enjoy carpentry. I spent some time as a carpenter while saving up for my pre-university Gap Year. I developed a real passion for it and get a huge amount of satisfaction from designing and creating something from scratch.
What was your favourite holiday?
Mexico (on honeymoon). I spent two weeks last November travelling round the Yucatan Peninsula. We spent the first 5 days on Holbox island in the Gulf of Mexico. It is located in the Yum Balam Nature Reserve and is completely unspoilt. You can snorkel with sting rays, turtles and even sharks! The beaches are white and the water crystal clear – it was stunning! And the food, especially the seafood, was so fresh. I highly recommend a visit. We then went to Tulum, located on the Caribbean coast. Although different to Holbox and far more touristy, we had some amazing experiences. Of note was swimming through the Cenotes (underground caves).
Is there one thing you wish you had known ten years’ ago?
Absolutely! Understanding the possible career paths available would have been a tremendous help. At school all we were ever told about were careers in the professions of medicine, law, accounting etc. Never were we exposed or educated on industries such as Oil and Gas and all the individual disciplines and career opportunities available within each industry. This, to an extent, was also the case at university. While we had multiple career fairs, it was only ever the large marketing firms, accounting firms, law firms etc. that had stands. Having studied Geoscience, none of these were applicable to me. Particularly interested in natural resources I decided to work in the oil and gas sector. However, it wasn’t until I started working that I was exposed to the vast number of varying career opportunities within the industry. Until that point I had only considered a career within Geoscience as that had been what I had studied. However, I quickly realised that I was more interested in the commercial side of the business. The problem is that it isn’t always easy to move disciplines! So, finding my dream role wasn’t a matter of applying and getting it, it took a number of years. Having someone talk to me about my interests ten years ago and then talk me through the associated career options would have saved me a few years searching for that on my own.
When did you last sing to yourself – or to someone else- and what song?
Embarrassingly, last weekend with a couple of friends – “I want it that way”, by the Backstreet boys.
Superpower. If you could have any, what would it be?
I’d love to be able to teleport. I don’t particularly enjoy travelling, especially if it involves a long flight, getting from A to B immediately would be ideal!
What’s one dream you have that you feel you really need to realise in this lifetime?
Despite not enjoying long journeys, I do love visiting new places and experiencing different cultures. I’d love to work abroad for a while.
What are some small things that make your day better?
The 7am coffee is a must! Before that I struggle to function. If possible, I really enjoy a lunch time gym or spin session. It gives me a huge boost of energy for the afternoon.
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