Andrew McIntosh, or Andy as he’s fondly known, has a wealth of experience across continents. Having worked in places like Azerbaijan, India, and the UK, his career journey is marked by adventure, curiosity, and a deep understanding of the global energy industry. However, his refreshing perspective on leadership, learning, and the subtle art of listening truly sets him apart.
In a recent conversation, Andy shared his thoughts on how outsiders view Cairn, the energy company he has been a part of. According to him, perceptions have undergone a dramatic shift, particularly in India. “Energy business partners are showing an increased interest in India,” Andy observed. There is growing recognition of India as an emerging hub of technical excellence, with some of the world’s best technological expertise and knowledge. He noted that this shift in perception has resulted in a rising influx of expatriates eager to explore the untapped potential India offers. “People want to come to India now, not leave,” he added.
Speaking about his experience on the field, Andy described it as a welcome getaway from the usual corporate grind. “You learn more from a person wearing a boiler suit than a person in a formal suit,” he remarked with a smile. He believes that to be an effective leader, one must possess a microscopic understanding of the business. His fieldwork, spread across various countries, has provided him with invaluable insights, but his favourite learning moments often happen over something as simple as a cup of tea. “A cup of tea unites people far more than any other event,” Andy said. He believes that more meaningful conversations happen over tea than in formal meeting rooms, adding that leaders should always listen to the quiet voices in the room. “Don’t always listen to the loudest. The quietest often has the best point to make,” he advised.
Reflecting on his time at Cairn, Andy highlighted the unique diversity within the organisation. “This is the most diverse company I’ve ever worked for, particularly in field operations,” he said. What struck him the most was the youthful demographic in the energy sector, something he had never seen elsewhere. He observed that even global giants like BP could learn from Cairn’s example of empowering young talent in the field.
Andy, who profoundly appreciates India’s rich culture, also offered a humorous yet profound observation about the country’s culinary diversity. “There’s no such thing as a single Indian food – it’s the United States of India,” he quipped, emphasising the importance of recognising and respecting the country’s many diversities.
Andy enjoys travelling and hiking when he isn’t immersed in his work. His passion for exploring new places is as strong as his commitment to learning, making him a true globetrotter at heart.
In the end, what stands out most about Andy is his grounded approach to leadership. He finds wisdom in simple moments, whether sipping tea or listening to the quietest voice in the room, and he’s constantly learning – not just from the business but from the people he meets along the way.
Contributed by Wellverse Team
