This month, we had the privilege of being ‘In conversation with Rodney Smith,’ General Legal Counsel at Cairn Oil & Gas. A distinguished professional whose extensive career spans over 25 years across continents, Rod joined Cairn in April 2024. With just a few weeks into his new role in India, let us take you on a journey as he shares his initial impressions, cultural experiences, and the dynamic aspects of his current stint in India.
Embracing Indian Culture
Having spent over 25 years voyaging across different shores, Rod’s recent move from Houston, Texas to Haryana, India has been a fascinating chapter. One of the most striking aspects of his early days in India, as shared by him, has been the openness and welcoming nature of Indian culture. Unlike his four years in the Middle East, his first two months in India have been filled with invitations to Indian homes and dinners with new friends, offering a refreshing change.
As an avid sportsman, his upbringing around sports has shaped his outlook on teamwork and achieving common goals. Interestingly, despite numerous attempts by his Australian friends to introduce him to cricket, he believes that he is yet to understand or enjoy the sport. However, after watching the T20 World Championship semi-final match against England at a sports pub, he has started to appreciate cricket. This move to India is finally bringing out the cricket fan in him.
Exciting Aspects of Rodney’s Role at Cairn
One of the most exciting aspects of his role at Cairn is participating in strategy sessions beyond just legal issues. Rod has always seen himself as a businessman with a law degree rather than just a lawyer. This mindset drives his goals and decision-making. He also mentioned to us that Rahul Sharma and Steve Moore have given him the freedom to define his role beyond the confines of a “legal” box. Additionally, he is thrilled by the talent and team at Cairn, as he believes there is much to learn from them, making every day exciting.
Culinary Adventures in India
As a Texan who loves outdoor barbecues, his passion for culinary experiences has followed him to India. Although he said, “My love for grilling and BBQ will be challenged here as I am sure that cooking on my terrace probably violates my lease conditions of my flat…I should have a lawyer look into that”. Under the realm of Indian cuisine, he is enchanted by the flavours of the subcontinent, particularly North Indian cuisine. Butter Chicken, albeit a common choice, has almost become a staple at the Smith residence, consumed two to three times a week. During his first weeks in India, he even took a culinary masterclass from a sous chef, further immersing himself in the local food culture.
Inspiring Travel Experiences
For Rod, travelling has always been about the journey and the experiences rather than just the destinations. As an avid golfer, playing in Ireland and the beautiful West Coast has been a highlight. If given a choice, he would live in Florence, Italy, or on a beach outside Lima, Peru, where his wife is from. Machu Pichu, in the Andes Mountains of Peru is an amazing place and the experience of seeing it for the first time at sunrise is quite amazing and somewhat spiritual, in my opinion.” Rod mentioned. He also mentioned that while he has travelled a lot, the true joy of travelling comes from the friendships made, the laughs shared, and the diverse cultures and histories encountered.
Balancing Life in India
Balancing a fast-paced corporate life with personal wellness is crucial. While he loves golf and has only played a couple of times since moving to India, he makes an effort to work out regularly, travel outside Delhi, try new restaurants, read non-fiction, and socialize with new friends on weekends. This balance helps him stay grounded and enjoy his new life in India.
Through these experiences, he has come to appreciate the richness of Indian culture and the exciting opportunities at Cairn, making this journey both professionally fulfilling and personally enriching.
Contributed by Wellverse Team
