This month, we welcomed Senior Commercial Accountant, Gugulethu Majakajaka, to our Tarong power stations team. We spoke to Gugulethu to learn more about the global career path that led her to Stanwell, what excites her most about her new role, and how she is settling into the South Burnett.
When asked about her career journey prior to her new role at Stanwell, Gugulethu talks of her experience within South Africa’s energy industry and undertaking post graduate studies at Curtin University in Western Australia.
“I worked at Eskom Holdings SOC (a South African public utility company) for sixteen years,” she said.
“At Eskom, I spent time as a Senior Management Accountant and as a Finance Manager of a power station, looking after the finance, procurement and support services departments.
“After starting off as a Project Accountant, the final four years of my career with Eskom led me to being appointed to Middle Manager for Finance, where I provided support for six power stations.”
Gugulethu made the big decision to move to Australia in late 2018 to be with her husband and undertake post graduate studies.
Looking for a new challenge, Gugulethu speaks of her excitement for taking on this new role and gaining a deeper understanding of the wider business.
“For me, it’s the story behind the numbers,” she said.
“I really enjoy plant performance and technical discussions, and I find the more I understand the operational activities and functions, the better I can support the business, ask relevant questions and make a meaningful contribution.
“I am also excited to get to know my colleagues, build positive and cohesive relationships, and learn more about Stanwell.”
In addition to these, there has also been some surprise learnings for Gugulethu.
“The biggest surprise for me has been the amount of reporting systems we use in the organisation,” she said.
“For now, I am just trying to learn the basics!”
Calling the South Burnett home has been a bonus for Gugulethu, who is looking forward to exploring what the region has to offer.
“After my interview for the position, I jumped online and came across the top ten things to do in the South Burnett region. My husband and I love road trips and visiting nearby towns, so I think we will start with that list, and exploring more of Queensland.”
When talking to Gugulethu, her passion for the work that she does is certainly clear, and we’re pleased to have her onboard!
Fun fact: Gugulethu speaks eight languages, one being English and the other seven are indigenous to South Africa.