Spotlight On…
Christina Portelli, Supply Operator
 
		
	After completing the Graduate Programme at Phillips 66 Limited, Christina Portelli reflects on stepping into her new role, navigating a rigorous yet rewarding interview process and embracing an inclusive company culture.
Tell us about the graduate programme and why you chose Phillips 66
I finished my Economics degree at Warwick, and with a keen interest in energy, I decided to apply. Graduate schemes are super competitive and the interview process is intense! After an initial psychometric test and a video interview, we had an in-person Assessment day including a final presentation.
After the video interview, HR called to ask how my day had been and to let me know that I was progressing to the next stage. It felt very personal, and I remember feeling really impressed by that.
The Assessment Day felt very inclusive, and we got to spend some time with the current cohort to ask any questions. It was friendly and approachable and gave a good impression of what the company dynamics might be like.
When did you join Phillips 66?
I was offered the job on in December 2021 and started in July 2022.
The graduate programme is two years, and in that time, they commit to giving you two roles – a unique selling point. My first year was in Sales Support in UK Marketing and my second role (Yr 2) was in Risk Analysis in Commercial. Two very different experiences and some great insights into the world of Phillips 66.
I finished the Graduate Programme in July 2024 and went into my first role off the programme. I am a Supply Operator, and I help oversee the replenishment and inventory management of two of our core UK terminals, as well as dealing with day-to-day operational queries and working with various counterparties. It’s full on, but so far, so good!
Give us a flavour of a typical day
I start off looking at stocks and prepare for our daily supply update which is with the entire team. After that, a quick coffee! The rest of the day will involve planning my replenishments, doing project work or attending various meetings. Each day is different, and there’s a lot of information to process, so having an analytical brain definitely helps!
Tell us about your experience of the company and the culture
It’s extremely warm and friendly. Everyone has time to talk to you no matter how senior they are. I truly felt a part of the team from day one despite being new. Socially, it’s great. We have a really active sports and social committee, and the winter dinner dance is the highlight of the year for a lot of us.
If you had to pick three qualities you need to do your job well – what would they be?
Good communication, detail and organisation.
Tell is something about you people may not know
I’m a qualified yoga teacher! I specialise in Power Yoga – which is quite fast-paced and dynamic. I do sometimes feel like I have an alter ego!