Meet the Team Series | Ivan Gemelli

Welcome to the team Ivan, can you tell us a bit about your background?

I'm a Mechanical Engineer and graduated from the University Politecnico of Milan 2003. I have 20 years of experience across multiple industries but I actually started my career in 1998 when I founded a family company involved in printed circuit board commerce in niche markets such as mobile phone antennas and military/defence.

During my career I have built up a wealth of experience in the Ex Market for Automation & Instrumentation & Bulk Material. I've spent the last 4 years as Engineering Procurement Construction & Sales Country Manager for Eaton Crouse Hinds in Italy and was part of the International Oil & Gas Team coordinating the EPC projects there for the entire portfolio. I was even the LED Champion for my country becoming the Point of Contact for all the LED opportunities across the territory and was a member of a European team with the goal to push and promote LED fixtures against the traditional ones

You have a lot of experience in Oil & Gas, what drew you to the industry?

As an engineer, I’ve enjoyed the challenges and personal satisfaction that comes with working in such a complex industry such as Oil & Gas. I appreciated visiting different refineries and meeting many people, from engineers up to C-level staff and discovering the real O&G world.

What's the greatest thing about working in this industry?

The greatest thing is that you never stop learning in this industry. There are so many aspects, both technical & commercial, but the side that I really love is building networks and relationships with people such as important clients. If you behave professionally the customer will remember you as a skilled person who is able to solve their problems which helps build a loyal connection.

Can you tell us about the most exciting project you've worked on?

In 2015/16 my team and I brought in an order in excess of $50m selling Transformers, UPS, MV & LV Switchgear and eight E-houses. Also, in 2017 I brought in the largest ever order in Europe for MV Switchgear for a refinery in Kuwait and then received a letter of compliments by the EPC as the delivery of the contract went above and beyond their expectations.

How do you see the industry changing over the next 10 years?

The industry is becoming more technical and the ability to have instant information from the field is playing a role in advancing the industry. IoT is a growing trend in Oil & Gas and all the big companies are pursuing it. Procurement of products is now a global procedure so the vendors have to be structured and prepared to work globally in order to satisfy the market demand.

What drew you to work at Hubbell?

Mark Potter, Head of EPC International projects at Hubbell, he was my previous manager at Eaton and we caught each other by chance. He was looking for people to lead EPC projects into southern Europe for Hubbell. I knew Hubbell was a strong competitor on international projects, so I decided to take this new challenging opportunity.

What aspect of working at Hubbell are you most excited about?

It’s too early for me to say right now as I’ve only just started my adventure here at Hubbell, but I can say that I have been really impressed by the passion of everyone working here and that I have really felt a good working spirit within the team in my first few days.

Do you have a favourite Hubbell Harsh & Hazardous Product?

Yes, it would be hard not to mention Hawke Cable Glands. Hawke are one of the most important brands in Oil & Gas with products recognised all around the world. I’m sure I will discover many more exciting products soon!

What do you do in your spare time?

I love motorcycles and my hobby is restoring old motorcycles and scooters. I’m currently restoring an old Vespa! I also like to go cycling with my kids.