Spotlight on Leadership: Nurizawani, Head of Regional Strategy and Business Development, SEA

“I graduated in Petroleum Geology and began my career in technical roles within the upstream sector,” Wani explains.

She started as a seismic engineer and geophysicist, working closely with subsurface data to support exploration activities. Her early work also included microseismic and petrophysics analysis, where she worked with datasets from projects across Southeast Asia.

“That early exposure gave me a deep appreciation for how technical insight and operational decisions directly influence the success of large energy projects.”

 

From technical roles to strategic leadership

Over time, Wani’s career gradually evolved toward commercial and strategic roles. Along the way, she worked with several global organizations, including SLB, Weatherford, Lloyd’s Register, Vysus Group, and Bureau Veritas, before joining Applus+.

These experiences exposed her to different parts of the energy value chain — from subsurface services to inspection, asset integrity, and assurance.

Her move into strategy and business development was shaped by both professional development and personal circumstances.

“During my time at Weatherford, I was rotating for microseismic work in Daqing Oilfield in China while I was still breastfeeding my second son,” she recalls. With her husband also working offshore on rotation, balancing family life and field assignments became increasingly challenging.

“After discussing it together, we realized the best way to raise our children was for me to move into a role that allowed me to be at home more consistently.”

At the same time, she recognized that her strengths and personality aligned with a more outward-facing role.

“I realized I’m naturally an extroverted person. I enjoy meeting people, exchanging ideas, and building relationships rather than working alone analyzing data behind a desk.”

Today, Wani brings together her technical background and commercial experience to guide strategic growth for Applus+ across Southeast Asia.

“For me, effective strategy must always be grounded in operational realities, client challenges, and long-term industry trends.”

 

A technical perspective on market development

Wani believes her early technical experience continues to shape the way she approaches market development today.

“When you start your career in engineering or geoscience, you learn to analyze problems systematically and understand the operational constraints clients face.”

In industries such as oil and gas, pipelines, and infrastructure, she notes that clients are not simply looking for service providers.

“They are looking for solutions that improve asset integrity, safety, and operational efficiency.”

Her technical foundation allows her to engage in deeper discussions with clients while translating operational challenges into strategic opportunities for the business.

It also helps bridge a common gap within organizations.

“Strategy works best when technical expertise and commercial thinking are aligned. Part of my role is helping connect those perspectives across our regional teams.”

 

Building credibility in a traditionally male-dominated industry

Like many professionals in engineering and energy, Wani has built her career in industries where women have historically been underrepresented, particularly in technical environments.

Early in her career, establishing credibility sometimes required persistence.

“There were times when I was one of very few women in the room,” she says.

Over time, she found that expertise, professionalism, and consistent performance were the most effective ways to build trust.

“Credibility comes from delivering results and developing strong knowledge in your field. Eventually, those things speak louder than any assumptions.”

She also acknowledges the importance of supportive professional environments.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with leaders and colleagues who value competence and different perspectives. Those environments allow people to grow based on merit.”

 

Aligning teams across diverse markets

Leading strategy and business development across multiple countries requires balancing regional direction with local expertise.

Each market within Southeast Asia has its own regulatory framework, operational context, and client priorities.

“You need a clear strategic direction, but it’s equally important to respect and empower local teams who understand their markets best.”

Strong communication and transparency play an important role in maintaining alignment.

“When teams understand how their work contributes to the broader vision of the organization, collaboration becomes much stronger.”

She also highlights the importance of teamwork within her own group.

“My team is mostly men, and I’m grateful that they value my input and are willing to work together. For me, teamwork is essential to achieving results

 

Supporting the next generation

Mentorship has played an important role throughout Wani’s career, often through everyday collaboration rather than formal programs.

“Some of the most valuable lessons I learned were not just technical, but about leadership, resilience, and strategic thinking.”

Observing how experienced leaders approached complex business decisions helped shape her own leadership style.

Today, she tries to provide the same support to others — particularly professionals transitioning from technical roles into broader commercial or leadership positions.

“Sharing experiences, providing guidance, and creating opportunities for others to grow is essential for developing the next generation of leaders.”

 

Advice for the next generation

Reflecting on International Women’s Day, Wani encourages young professionals — particularly women entering engineering and energy sectors — to continue building both technical expertise and confidence.

“Stay curious, keep developing your skills, and never underestimate the value of your perspective.”

While technical competence is an important foundation, leadership requires a broader set of capabilities.

“Leadership is also about communication, adaptability, and bringing people together to solve complex problems.”

Her final advice is simple but powerful.

“Seek mentors, take on challenges that stretch your capabilities, and step forward when opportunities arise. The industry is evolving rapidly, and there is tremendous opportunity for diverse talent to contribute and lead.”

“Most importantly, believe in your potential and focus on creating meaningful impact through your work.”