Benefiting From a Renewed Focus
Marathon Oil’s long-standing operations in Equatorial Guinea (EG) have become a pillar of the country’s energy infrastructure and economic stability. John Blackwell, Director of Supply Chain, leads the supply chain strategy and plays a key role in managing offshore and onshore operations while prioritising sustainable practices and fostering local partnerships. In a recent interview with Executive Insight, Blackwell discussed Marathon Oil’s role in EG, his career journey
John Blackwell oversees Marathon Oil’s extensive presence in Equatorial Guinea, where the company partners with entities like EG LNG and Ampco to manage upstream production, ensuring significant contributions to the nation’s economy. The Alba field, one of Marathon Oil’s core assets, has benefited from a renewed focus on innovation. By expanding third-party partnerships and launching a new drilling programme, Marathon is taking Alba’s production to unforeseen heights. “We’re seeing the country position itself as a regional gas hub,” Blackwell notes, highlighting Marathon Oil’s alignment with EG’s goal to expand its role in regional energy supply.
www.conocophillips.com/marathonoil
A Proven One-Stop-Shop Logistics Provider
AKON-DONLUIS is a proven and reputable one-stop logistics shop in Equatorial Guinea, proudly 100% locally owned. Our dedicated team of over 45 professionals brings together more than 200 years of cumulative experience in logistics. We offer comprehensive services, including day-to-day import/export activities for the petroleum industry, short-term drilling campaigns, heavy lifts, and expert customs clearance. Our team is committed to providing expert, professional, and reliable service tailored to the needs of your company, organization, or personal requirements.
We place a high priority on safety and compliance with both international and local regulations. Akon-Donluis has been dedicated to maintaining Trace certification for over a decade, ensuring our processes are reputable and compliant. Count on us for smooth and efficient logistics solutions in Equatorial Guinea.
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Luba Freeport Jetty/Quayside
Luba, Equatorial Guinea Bioko Island
225+ Years of Experience in Logistics
45+ Experts are standing by to help you with your next logistics project
16+ Full array of logistics services to Oil & Gas companies in Equatorial Guinea
Akon-Donluis provides the following Services:
Logistics for Oil and Gas companies and their sub-contractors, as well as other industries
Logistics for Drilling Campaigns
Freight Forwarding for inbound and Outbound shipments (import / export + air / sea)
Customs Clearance
Transportation (heavy lifts, general cargo, etc.)
Vessel Agency including Husbandry services
Meet and Greet (airport and sea ports)
Warehousing (including packing)
Logistics Services for all your needs
KM5, Carretera del Aeropuerto Camino a Malabo II Malabo, Equatorial Guinea Bioko Island
+240 (222) 089-046
+1 (954) 805-6450
info@akon-donluis.com
Candy Vista Mar Paseo Maritimo
Bata, Equatorial Guinea
Mainland
Akon-Donluis
Akon-Donluis EM
Teamwork, goal setting, and accountability are principles I carried forward into the corporate world.
Blackwell’s journey into supply chain leadership has been anything but typical. Starting with an accounting degree, he transitioned into college sports coaching, where he developed core leadership and team-building skills. “My background in sports really shaped my approach,” Blackwell shares. “Teamwork, goal setting, and accountability are principles I carried forward into the corporate world.” Blackwell’s shift to the oil and gas industry brought a steep learning curve, but his adaptability and openness to challenges have been instrumental to his success at Marathon Oil. Since relocating to EG, Blackwell has led the local supply chain team, consistently adapting the department to reflect Marathon Oil’s values and priorities.
One key addition to his team has been Rosabella-A. Ndong Chele, Marathon Oil’s first external national hire in a leadership role. Her expertise has brought fresh perspectives to the team and underscores Blackwell’s dedication to building a representative, sustainable workforce. “Hiring local talent like Rosabella is about more than filling a role—it’s about developing a workforce that reflects the community we’re part of,” he says. This hiring marks a significant milestone in Marathon Oil’s efforts to strengthen its connections within the local community, which Blackwell believes is vital to long-term success in the region.
Local supply chain development is central to Blackwell’s leadership. Drawing on his experience in North Dakota, he aims to build a resilient, locally anchored supply chain in EG. “We invest in vendors,” he says, providing training to help local suppliers meet standards and fostering a network
Elite EM
I want to make my family proud and leave this place better than I found it
that benefits both Marathon and the community. Successful partnerships with local suppliers like Certex Africa and BNA highlight Marathon Oil’s extraordinary progress in community engagement. BNA secured key construction projects in Punta Europa, while Certex certifies rigging and lifting equipment. “These partnerships enhance local economic outcomes and strengthen community ties,” says Blackwell. Although many services are locally sourced, some materials come from nearby countries like Nigeria and Cameroon to ensure availability. Regional partnerships improve efficiency and reduce delivery times, though Blackwell notes there’s room to optimise further. “Lead times have improved post-COVID,” he adds.
Technology is central to Blackwell’s streamlining Marathon Oil’s supply chain strategy. Early automation in procurement boosted efficiency, while SAP remains the main enterprise tool. Blackwell envisions AI and data analytics further refining processes. “AI could optimise operations,” he reflects, yet emphasises that technology’s success relies on its users. “Automation is essential, but people drive success,” he says, advocating for tech to enhance—not replace—human expertise. By balancing tech adoption with staff development, Blackwell prepares Marathon Oil for complex demands.
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are integral to Marathon Oil’s operations, and Blackwell is deeply committed to sustainability in Equatorial Guinea. “Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us,” he says. “It’s about accountability to the communities we serve and protecting the environment for future gener-
ations.” Key initiatives include the “Books for Bioko” programme, supporting local education, and a malaria prevention partnership with the EG government. Marathon Oil has also drilled wells to improve local access to clean water. For Blackwell, these efforts are vital to Marathon Oil’s mission in EG. “It’s about giving back in ways that truly improve lives,” he adds.
Marathon also maintains high environmental standards among its suppliers, ensuring they adhere to a strong commitment to sustainability. Suppliers are audited regularly, and Marathon Oil is quick to pause business with those who fall short. “We set the bar high,” Blackwell explains, “because we’re all in this together. Our goal is to minimise impact and prioritize sustainable practices across the board.”
Blackwell has spearheaded efforts in recent years to make Marathon Oil’s procurement process more accessible and equitable, creating opportunities for local suppliers. Through dedicated workshops, his team educates vendors on how to participate in tendering, guiding them through the proposal process step-by-step. “Fair competition benefits everyone, from Marathon Oil to the suppliers and ultimately the community,” he says. By fostering fair competition, Marathon Oil strengthens its supply chain and boosts the local economy, while Blackwell’s commitment to transparency and support creates pathways for new businesses to thrive.
Looking ahead, Blackwell is focused on building a resilient, self-sufficient team capable of sustaining Marathon Oil’s long-term impact in Equatorial Guinea. His vision is to cement a legacy of strong local leadership that can independently support and guide the company’s operations. By enhancing processes, investing in resources, and developing local talent, Blackwell aims to empower future leaders who can drive continued success in the region well into the future.
Reflecting on his career, Blackwell’s commitment to leaving a positive legacy is evident. “I want to make my family proud and leave this place better than I found it,” he shares. His vision for Marathon Oil in EG—built on local engagement, technological advancement, and sustainability—demonstrates his dedication to responsible leadership in the oil and gas industry. As he prepares for the next phase, Blackwell remains optimistic about the lasting impact of his work and the foundations he has helped build.
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AWA Oilfield Services Ltd. is a leading service company operating within the European & SubSaharan Continental Africa Petroleum industry, specializing in fabrication, machining, OCTG maintenance, preparation & refurbishment.
With over 30 years of experience supporting the petroleum market, we know the unique challenges that can occur, and we provide solutions when they are needed most.
Working with clients Worldwide from Houston to Aberdeen, our specialist services are designed to support your industry and to keep things running smoothly. Our industry certifications ensure our credentials and our experience and flexibility meet your needs. Awa are a trusted brand within the industry, producing international quality results within the harshest environments.
AWA EM
Operational Through Growing Excellence
Marathon Oil Corporation, a significant player in global oil exploration and production, has established a notable presence in Equatorial Guinea through its subsidiary, Marathon Oil Equatorial Guinea Production Ltd. (MEGPL). Known for its commitment to operational excellence and local economic development, MEGPL contributes substantially to the region’s growth. Recently, Executive Insight interviewed Rosabella-A. Ndong Chele joined MEGPL as Supply Chain Manager in June after a distinguished 20-year career with ExxonMobil. In this conversation, Rosabella shared insights into her journey, vision for MEGPL, and commitment to building a resilient, locally integrated supply chain that supports Equatorial Guinea’s economic advancement.
Rosabella’s transition to Marathon Oil followed Exxon Mobil’s departure from Equatorial Guinea after the expiration of its licences. Faced with taking a break or joining MEGPL, she chose the latter, drawn by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in an organisation that aligns with her values. Her seamless integration into MEGPL was bolstered by her extensive experience and dedication to fostering local partnerships and operational efficiency. For Rosabella, her role at MEGPL represents a unique chance to contribute to her home country in a lasting way.
www.conocophillips.com/marathonoil
A cornerstone of Rosabella’s strategy is her commitment to local sourcing, which she considers vital for MEGPL’s success and bolstering Equatorial Guinea’s economy.
With the anticipated acquisition of Marathon Oil by ConocoPhillips, Rosabella is focused on refining MEGPL’s supply chain operations to enhance agility and resilience. While acknowledging the strong framework already in place, she sees ample opportunity for innovation through advanced inventory management, streamlined procurement, and optimised logistics. Her vision is to create a supply chain that responds swiftly to evolving industry demands while maintaining cost-effectiveness, thereby bolstering MEGPL’s operational capabilities and adaptability in a changing market landscape.
A cornerstone of Rosabella’s strategy is her commitment to local sourcing, which she considers vital for MEGPL’s success and bolstering Equatorial Guinea’s economy. By prioritising local vendors who meet MEGPL’s high standards, she aims to establish a symbiotic relationship that fuels economic growth, job creation, and long-term sustainability. This approach strengthens MEGPL’s operational flexibility and contributes to building a robust local business ecosystem. Rosabella believes a supply chain rooted in local engagement can yield mutual benefits for MEGPL and the broader community.
Bernardo Nnang Avomo
Bernardo Nnang Avomo founded BNA SERVICIOS (BNA S.L.) in 2013 as a fully Equatoguinean-owned company specialising in engineering, construction, and supply services. Operating across both the mainland and island regions of Equatorial Guinea, BNA provides essential support to industries including oil and gas, civil construction, and IT. “Our vision is to firmly establish BNA as a leading local provider,” says Mr. Nnang, with plans to eventually expand into nearby countries like Cameroon and Gabon.
A pivotal partnership for BNA has been with Marathon Oil, with whom they have collaborated since 2019. Mr. Nnang recalls that the journey began with persistent efforts to demonstrate BNA’s capabilities, and their determination paid off. “We kept proving our commitment to quality until Marathon trusted us with projects,” he explains. This partnership has been instrumental in BNA’s growth, providing opportunities that helped build its expertise and reputation within the industry. Today, BNA is a key Marathon Oil partner, supporting their operations with engineering, construction, and supply services in Equatorial Guinea’s oil sector.
Mr. Nnang attributes BNA’s success to a client-centric approach, which he believes is the foundation of its strong reputation. “We put the client’s interests first, bringing our full resources, knowledge, and dedication to each project,” he says. This philosophy, along with BNA’s local insights and quality-driven approach, has made them a trusted partner for clients. As BNA continues to expand its impact, Mr. Nnang remains committed to upholding the high standards that have made BNA a respected name in Equatorial Guinea’s dynamic market.
CIVIL ENGINEERING, PROCUREMENT & CONSTRUCTION
Construction Services across multiple industry sectors.
Key supply chain partner to MEGPL and supporting their producing assets.
Serving producing assets across Equatorial Guinea.
Providing over 45 skilled personnel for your business contractual requirements.
Focused on safety and professional completion of all projects.
Reflecting on her two-decade-long career, Rosabella’s path is marked by significant achievements that have shaped her leadership philosophy. During her tenure at ExxonMobil, she led initiatives to streamline procurement processes, reduce costs, and enhance supply chain resilience. These experiences underscored the importance of adaptability, teamwork, and innovation, lessons she now applies at MEGPL. Each milestone in her career has reinforced her belief in continuous improvement and collaboration, qualities essential to effective leadership.
Navigating a traditionally male-dominated
industry, Rosabella has faced challenges on her path to leadership. Her journey has been one of resilience and determination, and she attributes her success to staying true to her values and demonstrating unwavering commitment. She actively promotes this authenticity and strength philosophy among her female MEGPL colleagues. Rosabella’s leadership style is grounded in empathy and inclusivity, fostering an environment where women are empowered to pursue leadership roles. Through mentoring and advocacy, she encourages her female peers to challenge industry norms, believing that resilience and confidence are keys to success in any field.
PARTNER THAT CARES
Transportation and Logistic Consulting Equatorial Guinea S.A.
“TLC SA”
What we do:
TLC Equatorial Guinea offers logistics solutions to the main players in the Energies, Resources and Infrastructures sectors. Our commitment is to serve our clients better, offering expert advice, and ensuring timely deliveries. We provide global door-todoor delivery through a vast network of international freight forwarders, negotiating the best rates for sea and air freight. We support marine logistics, including vessel agency services, bunkering, and chartering, alongside personalized crew assistance for travel and accommodation. TLC Equatorial Guinea is agent with a permanent presence in Luba free port ltd and long-term partnership with K5.
TLC Equatorial Guinea 3 full-operational offices
• Headquarters in Malabo (EGICO building)
• Office in Luba and Office in Bata
Contact
• Mr. José-Luis Garcia Tarifa
• Country Manager
• Email: management.eg@tlc-com.ch
• Tel: +240 222 591 340
With her extensive experience in Equatorial Guinea’s business landscape, Rosabella brings a unique perspective to MEGPL’s local supply chain development commitment. For her, local sourcing is not merely a business strategy but a pathway to sustainable growth and national advancement. Rosabella aims to strengthen MEGPL’s supply chain and drive economic progress, create jobs, and empower local communities by fostering partnerships with Equatorial Guinean suppliers.
As Supply Chain Manager, Rosabella encounters numerous challenges, from fluctuating supply demands to complex regulatory environments. She addresses these issues with a problem-solving mindset, viewing them as opportunities for innovation. Rosabella fosters a collaborative work culture, encouraging her team to share ideas and work together towards creative solutions. This team-oriented approach enhances efficiency, builds morale, and instills a shared sense of purpose among her colleagues, further strengthening MEGPL’s operational resilience.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Rosabella, as a native of Equatorial Guinea, feels a strong personal commitment to supporting her community. She believes in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives that directly benefit residents, particularly in areas like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. To Rosabella, CSR is not an optional add-on but an integral part of MEGPL’s mission. She views CSR as an essential extension of her supply chain responsibilities, allowing MEGPL to address community needs while enhancing the quality of life for Equatorial Guinean citizens. Her commitment to CSR reflects her belief that MEGPL’s success should translate into meaningful social contributions.
Under Rosabella’s stewardship, MEGPL’s supply chain is not only well-prepared to meet the demands of the oil and gas industry but is also poised to serve as a driver of positive change in Equatorial Guinea. Her dedication to operational efficiency, local development, and community support has positioned MEGPL as a leader in business performance and social impact. Rosabella-Asue Ndong Chele’s journey inspires aspiring leaders, demonstrating how purpose-driven leadership can bring about lasting, positive change.