Britt Burnett, global marketing/product manager, Shell Commercial Fleet

What has been your biggest achievement in your current role?

In 2011 we went live with our Shell Card Online tool in 18 markets globally, helping our customers manage their business in a new and efficient way. It was a great team effort and I was very proud to lead the global marketing team through such an exciting development for the business and for our customers.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career?

My first manager in Shell took a chance on me and introduced me to the power of storytelling – in marketing it is so important to bring a product to life in a way that both employees and customers identify with.

What is your dream holiday?

Like many Scandinavians, my husband and I have a summer house in the Danish countryside. My dream holiday would be spent there, going for long walks on the beach and enjoying quality time with my family.

Who was the last person you received a text message from?

My sister-in-law, asking if I’d like to have dinner, as I’ve recently returned from visiting our Malaysian office.

What is your favourite sitcom?

Modern Family – I think it portrays all the different aspects of family life.

What is your favourite film?

Breakfast at Tiffany’s – it’s an all-time classic.

When was the last time you took public transport?

I took the tube to work this morning.

You are on a desert island – what three things do you take with you?

My Kindle, my duvet and a Swiss army knife.

What is your fondest childhood memory?

Being awestruck by the magic of Christmas.

What is your favourite book?

I love a lot of books but my favourite is Mayada Daughter of Iraq, by Jean Sasson. It is such an impactful and emotional book - I read it many years ago and I still remember it vividly.

When did you last feel guilty about the environment and why?

I try to be efficient in my daily life as I am conscious of the environment and reducing my impact on it. I opt for efficient products whenever possible. I use Shell Diesel to fill up my car and when I replaced my dishwasher I made sure I chose an energy-efficient model.

What is the first thing you would do if you were made Prime Minister?

I’d remove university tuition fees. Education should be free for everyone.

What was your biggest mistake in business, and what did you learn?

In my first management role, I tried to do too much myself instead of empowering my team members to do more. It taught me a lot about delivering through others and I firmly believe that successis only achieved through a strong team effort.

If you won the Lottery, what would be the first thing you would buy?

I would pay off my mortgage and buy a boat for my father, which has always been his retirement dream.

How would you describe your leadership style?

Honest, trusting, passionate and hard-working.

Who was your childhood hero?

TV’s secret agent Macgyver – I admired his resourcefulness and good looks.

Which historical character do you most identify with?

Amelia Earhart, the first woman to fly across the Atlantic – I share her strong will and dedication.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

All good things come to those who wait and those who work hard.

What is the one object you couldn’t live without?

At work it would be my Blackberry; I regularly travel to Shell’s global commercial fleet markets, so I rely on it to keep me on top of what’s going on.

Which comics superhero would you like to be?

Obelix from Asterix. He is a big gentle giant who is funny and loves eating and drinking, but can also be a fierce and victorious warrior.

What was the pivotal moment in your life?

Moving away from home at 17 – I decided I was going to be grown-up and independent.

What is your dream car?

A Formula 1 car.

What is your favourite restaurant meal?

There are so many I can’t choose!

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