Jaswinder Mann-Kalil

Tell us a bit about yourself - your background, and the role you’re currently in.

I grew up in West London, where I developed a natural curiosity for language, science, and the arts. As a kid, I loved performing in school plays - singing and acting were a big part of my early life. Over time, though, my interests shifted more towards the sciences, especially palaeontology, volcanology, and archaeology. It wasn’t exactly a straight path to where I am now, but it all helped shape the journey.

I went on to study Applied Geosciences at university, then completed a Master’s in Petroleum Geoscience, focusing on Structural Geology. I started out in technical roles as a Geoscientist and gradually moved into more senior positions.

A big turning point came when I relocated to Stavanger, Norway. It was a bold move - both exciting and a bit daunting - but it opened up new opportunities. Since then, my role has expanded from technical work into leadership, strategy, and commercial development. In 2023, I stepped into the role of Director of Scandinavia, and now lead our multi-client efforts from Oslo.

These days, I focus on supporting a great team as we work to deliver offshore energy projects across Norway.

Was your career path something you mapped out early on, or did it take shape as you went along?

My career path has unfolded gradually, rather than following a set plan from the beginning. I’ve always been curious and open to new experiences, which has led me to explore a range of interests and opportunities along the way. Some of the most valuable parts of my journey came from unexpected turns and challenges - they helped me discover strengths and passions I didn’t know I had.

Looking back, I’m glad I stayed flexible and willing to adapt, rather than sticking too closely to a fixed path.

What career challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges early on was putting myself through university while juggling three jobs. It was a tough time, and managing my energy and workload wasn’t easy - but it taught me a lot about discipline, resilience, and staying focused on what I wanted to achieve.

Later, stepping into the working world, I had to navigate the fast-paced and often high-pressure culture in the UK. It could feel relentless at times, and I had to learn how to balance ambition with looking after my own well-being - something I’ve come to see as essential for long-term success.

There were also moments when it was hard to be heard in predominantly male environments. Over time, I learned how to speak up with confidence, support my ideas with knowledge, and build strong relationships with people who appreciated different perspectives. Those experiences sharpened my communication skills and reinforced the value of persistence and self-belief.

What has been your biggest career achievement to date?

One of my proudest achievements has been building and leading a happy, high-performing team. Creating a positive, collaborative work environment has been fundamental to the many successes we’ve achieved together. I also take great pride in having presented at numerous technical conferences over the years - sharing insights from my work and gaining inspiration from peers across the industry.

What’s one key factor you believe has contributed most to your success?

If I had to choose one thing that’s made the biggest difference, I’d say it’s consistent hard work - showing up, staying curious, and giving my best, even when things felt uncertain. I’ve been lucky to have some incredible people around me throughout my career. Their advice, encouragement, and example gave me confidence when I needed it most.

There were also a few key people who supported me quietly - opening doors, creating opportunities, and believing in me even before I fully believed in myself. Looking back, it’s really been a mix of effort, support, and the generosity of others that’s helped me grow. And I’m genuinely grateful for that.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their career?

• Start by working hard and showing up with curiosity and commitment - the early stages of your career are a powerful time to build strong foundations.
• Don’t be afraid to speak up, ask questions, or share your ideas, even if you’re the least experienced person in the room. Your perspective is valuable, and your voice matters.
• Take pride in what you create, even the small wins - they all add up.
• Seek out mentors and colleagues you can learn from, and don’t hesitate to ask for guidance. No one succeeds alone, and the people around you can be one of your greatest resources.
• Be flexible and open to change - industries evolve, roles shift, and opportunities often come from unexpected places.
• Finally, and perhaps most importantly, be patient with yourself. Growth takes time. You don’t have to have everything figured out right away. Focus on learning, stay true to your values, and trust the journey!

What resources would you recommend for women working in tech?

• Start by connecting with other women in tech - community is one of the most powerful resources you can have. Whether it’s through formal networks, online platforms, or casual meetups, having a circle of support where you can share experiences, challenges, and advice can be incredibly empowering.
• There are also some fantastic organisations and initiatives dedicated to supporting women in technology. These communities often provide access to mentoring, webinars, events, job boards, and learning resources tailored to women in the field.
• Podcasts, books, and blogs can also be a great source of inspiration and insight.
• And don’t overlook internal company networks or employee resource groups - these can provide mentorship opportunities, safe spaces for discussion, and even open doors to leadership development.
• Most importantly, don’t hesitate to be a resource for others as you grow. The more we lift each other up, the stronger the community becomes.