Published on April 14, 2026

When the Salam team settles into BSP’s Technical Director office, we’re met with framed quotes, a collection of rock specimens as well as trinkets from around the world. We are also welcomed with enthusiasm and smiles – and that is Mariana Omar in essence, the new BSP Technical Director.

Stepping into the role of Technical Director is neither a small feat nor responsibility. The directorate oversees extensive portfolios such as exploration, development, wells, digitalisation and technology, project and engineering, wells, and decommissioning a restoration. Central to shaping the directorate’s long-term strategy, Mariana’s new position sits at the intersection of leadership, people management, and decision-making – on top of the day-to-day technical challenges.

In this interview, Mariana shares insights into her day-to-day role, career journey, leadership philosophy and what it means to be the first local woman to hold this position.

A Career That Started by Chance 

Her path into the energy industry was unexpected.

“I wanted to study international relations, but when I applied for a scholarship, I was offered geology instead. At the time, I wasn’t sure – but it turns out to be the start of a career I never imagined.”

She began working offshore early in her career before moving into technical and leadership role both in Brunei and overseas.

“Each role taught me something different. Over time, I realised I enjoyed not only the technical work, but also helping teams work together and make smarter choices together. That naturally led me into leadership.”

Early in her career: Mariana at a rig blessing ceremony 

 

Stepping Into a Bigger Responsibility

When offered the Technical Director role, Mariana took her time to think before accepting.

“I asked myself if I was ready, and whether I could do justice to the responsibility. This role affects many people, and I take that seriously.”

Today, she leads a large and diverse organisation.

But the journey has only started for Mariana.

“My biggest challenge is ensuring everyone is aligned and supported so we can move the company forward together. I strive to energize, enable and guide the team towards the right actions that truly move the needle.”

Leading with Integrity

Her leadership style balances firmness with empathy.

“I lead with decisiveness, but also with openness. I’m not afraid to challenge the status quo, and I like to ensure transparency in my decisions, so people understand the reasoning behind them.”

Integrity is non-negotiable.

“Doing the right thing must come first – whether it’s about safety, cost, schedule, production, or people.”

And these values were shaped early in Mariana’s life.

“I grew up between two cultures, Chinese and Tutong Malay, in a humble family. Watching my late father progress from part-time construction worker to business owner, while also serving as a teacher, taught me the value of work ethic, authenticity, and respect.”

That authenticity helps her connect with people across the organisation.

“When you are genuine, people trust you. And trust is essential, especially when you don’t see every team every day.”

Mariana during her days as student at Maktab Sains Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan

 

Breaking Barriers as the First Local Female Technical Director

For Mariana, the gravity of her position’s significance only sank in after the official announcement of her new role.

“I didn’t fully realise what it meant until I saw the reaction from others,” she says.

“As the first in my family to earn a degree, this achievement is very meaningful. I only wish my late father could have seen it.”

Working in a male-dominated industry never felt like a barrier, but it did require confidence.

“I grew up with brothers, and my parents believed girls must be independent. That helped me carry myself in this environment.”

She also believes progress has been made in the industry, but more can be done.

“Flexible policies, allyship, and leadership programs help, but we must also strengthen mentoring, partner with education institutions, foster cross-industry collaboration, and highlight women’s technical achievements to build female talent.”

She credits mentors, allies, and family support along the way.

“I’ve had people who challenged me, supported me, and showed what good leadership looks like. I’ve also had ‘character-building’ experiences that taught me what not to do. Both are valuable.”

Alongside her mentees at her "Mentoring Circle" session

 

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges of working in a mature oil and gas basin, Mariana remains optimistic on what lies ahead. Challenges can be viewed as opportunities.

“One of our biggest tasks is finding new potential while optimising existing assets. Ageing infrastructure and rising global costs can make this difficult, but also exciting.”

But Mariana mentions that innovation will be key.

 “We need new technology, new approaches, and new thinking. This is our chance to innovate and reimagine how we work by pushing boundaries. “

When asked about the legacy she hopes to leave, her answer is simple.

“I hope my time as Technical Director will be remembered as a period where we made a difference – where we extended the life of our mature assets, strengthened our people, and prepared our company for a stronger future. If one day I can say I helped BSP move forward in a positive way, that would be enough.”

Mariana alongside her team during visits to onshore sites