Texaco people profile: Eddy Devriese

I started my career in Chevron as a development chemist for passenger car motor oils (PCMO) at Texaco Technology in Belgium, before moving to sales and technical service for both local and international customers. I have many years experience working with global accounts and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) from both a commercial and technical perspective. I have also spent some time as a quality manager.

Why do you believe customers like working with Texaco?

I think as a company, we are customer centric. We have a strong product and service offering, and we combine that with a ‘can do’ mentality. Our brand credentials are excellent, and we enjoy strong relationships with global OEMs.

What behaviour or personality trait do you most attribute your success to, and why?

For me, it’s a combination of being candid and clear, while operating with integrity. When that is employed with an in-depth knowledge of products and services, I know I can give customers exactly what they need, and they know they can trust in my expertise.

What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in the industry during your time with Texaco?

The focus on fuel economy for the automotive and commercial sectors has grown hugely over time, with more of an emphasis on total cost of ownership and reliability of supply, particularly for industrial applications.

When providing information to customers, put yourself in their position and check for ease of understanding and clear messaging.

What is your most rewarding project to date?

Negotiating and successfully concluding a global agreement with a well-known OEM in 2000, which made Texaco one of their main lubricant suppliers/partners.