Member Feature: Desiree Cromwell
For 20 years, Desiree Cromwell, Gulf Coast Region Manager at Phillips 66, has had the privilege to be a part of an industry she says provides energy and improves the lives of many people across the world.
“The energy industry has transformed the fundamental way people interact daily, which is aligned with my personal core values to make a difference,” Cromwell said. “Throughout my career, I’ve had many opportunities to grow, develop and increase my business acumen by working in several business functions at Phillips 66.”
Cromwell—who is a proud HBCU graduate from Tuskegee University with a bachelor’s in chemical engineering and a master’s in business administration from Tulane University—says the best part of her job is being able to work with an amazing team, while solving real life problems.
“Each day, I bring my authentic self to the workplace and work in an environment that challenges me,” she said. “We have a great mission/vision, extraordinary team, and a strong family culture.”
Foundationally, Cromwell explained, the industry’s core commitments to provide reliable energy in a safe and environmentally friendly manner has not changed over the course of her career. She has, however, seen an evolution in how the industry achieves goals and executes strategies.
“Within our industry, we understand the importance of our social responsibility to maintain a resilient and long-term strategy. This includes embracing technology to become more efficient, innovative and agile,” she said. “We also understand the importance of culture and the value you achieve by increasing diversity at all levels within the organization to seek different perspectives and generate new ideas.”
As we look ahead to the next 5, 10 or even 50 years, Cromwell believes the industry is indeed transforming while also acknowledging the continued necessity of supplying energy to the world.
“As part of this transformation, I see our industry being a leader to develop new and exciting ways to meet the world’s energy demand while reducing the carbon footprint,” she said. “I envision our industry adopting new technologies to advance our goals and commitment.”
Cromwell emphasized how the need for reliable energy is critically important to the world and is part of the fabric of everything we do, and offers advice to those just starting out in the industry.
“As you start out your career, it’s important that you master both your technical and soft skills while building alliances and support within the organization,” Cromwell explained. “With our industry evolving, it’s important that you’re an advocate for change, are able to collaborate in new ways, are not afraid to fail, and are willing to accept new challenges. Be yourself, stay true to your values and be part of the solution.”
It’s an exciting time for those considering a career with a liquid terminal company and the energy industry.
“With the energy sector evolving, it’s such an exciting opportunity for an individual to create a legacy and make a difference,” said Cromwell, who in her spare time is an active board member of the Big Brothers and Big Sisters Organization in Bartlesville, Oklahoma and co-leader of the Community Affairs team. “The world is dynamic and continues to bring forth new challenges and opportunities.
“Be authentic, use your voice, be open to new ideas, embrace technology, be innovative and take risks. It will require everyone working together to continue to provide reliable energy around the world.”
Outside of her professional work, you can often find Cromwell traveling and learning about different cultures—preferably anywhere near a beach.