Engineering Excellence: Aneeb Chaudhry’s Journey from Chemical Engineering to Leading Innovation at Brenntag

From award-winning CMMS implementation to leading process safety initiatives, Aneeb Chaudhry is shaping the future of engineering at Brenntag.

Background and Career Path

Can you tell us about your educational background and how you got into engineering? What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering?

My educational background includes a First-Class Honors MEng in Chemical Engineering from the University of Surrey, complemented by a year of industrial experience at Bouygues Energies & Services UK. My father, a civil engineer, served as a constant source of inspiration, sparking my early interest in the field. The combination of my passion for mathematics, my desire for practical application, and my father's guidance led me to pursue a career in engineering. Additionally, my college chemistry teacher played a crucial role in encouraging me to explore the specific field of chemical engineering.

Can you outline your career journey?

I gained valuable experience at Bouygues during my university years, working summers and completing an industrial placement. After graduating, I joined Brenntag as an Engineering Coordinator in 2017. My primary responsibilities include overseeing capital projects and managing assets across the Brenntag network.

What are some key milestones or achievements in your career?

I successfully implemented the CMMS across the Brenntag UK&I network, a significant achievement that streamlined maintenance operations and improved efficiency. In recognition of my contributions, I was awarded the Chemical Business Association Young Person of the Year in 2020. My dedication and performance led to my promotion to Process Engineering Manager UK&I in 2021.

Current Role and Responsibilities

What is your current role, and what are your primary responsibilities? Can you describe a typical day at work for you?

As Process Engineering Manager UK&I, I ensure the successful and safe delivery of the annual capital projects budget. I also actively support the Process Safety Management program within UK&I and serve as an EMEA auditor. My regular interactions with competent authorities such as the EA and HSE are essential to maintaining compliance. A typical day varies depending on business needs. It can involve project meetings, safety risk assessments like HAZOPs, and problem-solving related to assets across the UK&I network.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your current position?

One of my biggest challenges is managing the volume of budgeted and unbudgeted projects, especially those related to breakdowns that impact production. Effective communication with stakeholders is crucial in such situations. Additionally, working with aging plants, particularly those acquired as part of network expansions, presents unique challenges.

Projects and Innovations

Can you tell us about a project you’ve worked on that you are particularly proud of?

I'm particularly proud of my role in implementing a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) across Brenntag UK&I's network of sites. I led the evaluation of potential systems, trialled them, and selected the most suitable solution based on feedback from site teams. After presenting the proposed system to Brenntag's senior management and securing £100k in funding, I developed a phased implementation plan for all 18 UK&I locations. The success of this project led to its adoption in Brenntag Nordic and the integration of all new acquisitions into the system.

This accomplishment was recognized with the Chemical Business Association's Young Person of the Year award in 2020. The CMMS has significantly improved efficiency and enhanced safety across our operations. My contributions to this project demonstrate my ability to drive complex initiatives, collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, and deliver tangible results.

How do you approach problem-solving and innovation in your projects?

I approach problem-solving in a structured and collaborative manner. I begin by clearly defining the problem statement through discussions with relevant stakeholders. By understanding the underlying drivers, including time, impact on safety, and potential benefits, I set realistic expectations for scope and budget. I then leverage my previous experiences and problem-solving techniques, such as root cause analysis and data-driven decision-making, to generate innovative solutions. I actively seek feedback from stakeholders and encourage open dialogue to create a collaborative environment.

Through this approach, I have successfully addressed complex challenges in the past, such as such as CMMS implementation. My ability to effectively define problems, generate creative solutions, and collaborate with stakeholders is a key asset in driving positive outcomes.

Skills and Expertise

What key skills do you think are essential for success in your field?

I believe technical expertise, leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and strong planning and organizational skills are essential for success in my field.

What made you join the SOE? How has the SOE helped your career?

I joined the Society of Engineers (SOE) because I was seeking a professional membership that aligned with my career path in the chemical distribution sector. My colleague, Andrew Fletcher, introduced me to SOE, and I quickly realised it was the perfect fit.

SOE played a pivotal role in helping me achieve Chartered Engineer status with the Engineering Council. Their support throughout the chartership process, including encouraging me to apply for chartership, clearly defined process and providing regular updates. Thanks to SOE's efficient and streamlined process, I was able to obtain my chartership quickly, which has significantly enhanced my career. I'm grateful for the support and opportunities that SOE has provided.

Personal Insights and Advice

What advice would you give to aspiring engineers or those early in their careers?

As an aspiring engineer or someone early in their career, I would offer the following advice:

• Try as many different things as possible to get invaluable hands-on experience. This could involve internships, co-op programs, or part-time work in various engineering roles.
• A mentor can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights as you navigate your career. Look for mentors within your organization or through professional networks.
• Participate in events, workshops, and networking opportunities offered by professional engineering organisations such as SOE. This will help you stay updated on industry trends, connect with like-minded individuals, and expand your professional network
• The field of engineering is constantly evolving, so it's important to stay curious and keep learning. Pursue additional certifications, attend conferences, and take advantage of online courses to enhance your skills.

Can you share any memorable experiences or lessons learned during your career?

What are your professional goals for the future?

I'm currently developing my skills in project management and process safety management. My goal is to become a respected Subject Matter Expert in these fields.

How do you see the field of engineering evolving in the next decade?

Engineering is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements, sustainability initiatives, and the need for innovative solutions. Engineers will be at the forefront of shaping the future, developing sustainable technologies, harnessing the power of AI, advancing healthcare, and driving digital transformation.

Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?

My current focus at Brenntag is on increasing efficiency and automating processes. I'm actively exploring projects to transition from manual or semi-automated operations to fully autonomous systems. This is an exciting time for engineers, and I'm proud to be contributing to this transformation at Brenntag.

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