Madeline | Government Affairs

Several things attracted me to BG Group. The stage of the Company’s growth made it an exciting place to work with plenty of learning and development opportunities. The culture seemed friendly, dynamic and open - it felt like you would be joining a community, not just a company. The location of the offices also appealed to me.

A job in BG Group’s policy and corporate affairs department fitted well with my nine years in political lobbying and public affairs. It also appealed to me because, as a horizontal function, it allows you to gain experience right across the business and in widely varying areas. I liked the idea of working on a government lobbying campaign in Italy one day and then analysing EU policy on carbon capture and storage the next.

Where do you fit in?

In government relations, we assess the risks relating to BG Group’s reputation and political concerns, all the while considering the potential impact on BG Group’s business. These risks come in many forms: legislation, relationships or broader political trends. Once we have established what the risks are, we develop strategies to mitigate them.

What would I need to do your job?

The profile for a job in government relations need not be too prescriptive. Experience in politics is useful, but political interest, judgement and analytical skills are more important. An appetite for learning about the oil and gas industry is crucial.

And the highlights?

I’ve hugely enjoyed developing a more commercial understanding of BG Group’s business and the industry more broadly. Travelling to different BG Group offices in the assets has taught me a lot about the Company’s culture outside of the corporate headquarters. I have also enjoyed representing such a well-respected company in external meetings and forums.

What’s the work environment like?

My working environment is very pleasant. In terms of location, BG Group’s offices in Reading are light, beautifully located in an open green space and cater well to your every day needs. In terms of the working culture at BG Group, I find it friendly, mature in a “grown up” way and flexible. You are trusted to manage your own time and the work-life balance is not only respected, but encouraged.

Has BG Group met your expectations?

I was confident I would enjoy working at BG Group and the job has not disappointed. I have been pleasantly surprised at the amount of freedom you are given to develop ideas beyond your day to day duties.