Stewardship to Namibia’s oil and gas guardian for nearly two decades

Asnat Neumbo is the contracts manager at the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR), where she has been for nearly two decades after joining NAMCOR as a financial accountant in 2004. She has since expanded her expertise and insight into downstream operations in her capacity as a financial accountant.

After a decade within the finance department, she transitioned to a pivotal role in the downstream business as the supply and logistics manager. Here, she was responsible for effectively managing NAMCOR's inland depots, overseeing intricate inventory processes, and coordinating operations. "A significant facet of my role involved ensuring the seamless distribution of petroleum products to our valued clients."

Neumbo holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Namibia and a master’s in business administration from the Maastricht School of Management in the Netherlands. "I possess a diverse background spanning multiple fields, including accounting, pension fund management, and supply and logistics," she said.



Upholding authenticity and quality

Neumbo’s mission centres on empowering others to uncover their potential, and she is committed to making a positive impact both in her career and personal life. "Apart from my professional pursuits, I find solace and inspiration in nurturing my role as a wife, mother, daughter, and sister. Guided by values of integrity, transparency, and excellence, I am driven to uphold a standard of authenticity and quality that fosters enduring trust in all my interactions. In the words of Abraham Lincoln: 'Whatever you are, be a good one!'"

Neumbo has cultivated a deep understanding of the Namibian petroleum downstream industry, which consequently led her to assume the supply contracts manager position.

She is thus entrusted with the oversight of NAMCOR's product procurement endeavours after contracts, ensuring the optimisation of supply contracts for the organisation’s benefit. "My role extends to safeguarding the adherence to awarded contracts and meticulously managing product receipts in line with these agreements. I ensure that financial outflows align with the terms of the agreement."



Longevity in Namibia’s oil and gas guardian

According to Neumbo, her longevity in NAMCOR has been rewarding and driven by a strong sense of purpose. "At the core of my dedication lies the privilege of being part of an entity that serves not just as a business but as a guardian of Namibia's interests. NAMCOR's identity goes beyond mere profit-making, as we aim to create value for all stakeholders across the oil and gas value chain, ensuring supply security for the nation. This resonates with my values and aspirations. My role within the downstream department thus plays an integral part in ensuring the efficient flow of energy resources in the country."

Going forward, Neumbo intends to assume greater leadership roles through growth and innovation and guide teams to reach their utmost capabilities. She takes pride in contributing to forward-looking projects that address current issues while paving the path for industry progress. Although not immune to challenges, she prioritises learning how to navigate complex projects, adapt to the industry and role shifts, and work with diverse individuals. Overcoming these challenges required utilising collaboration and improving listening as well as learning skills, enabling her to emerge stronger and more resilient.

She advises young professionals in the oil and gas sectors to discover their niche and embrace it.

"Identify your passion and strive to excel in that area. Even if you haven’t pinpointed that thing yet, continue to give your best and demonstrate dedication to your current situation and available resources."