Nigeria’s attempts to manage its vast energy industry resources have been complicated. "From 2000 to 2010, more than 100 refinery construction projects were announced in Africa. Only one was built, according to consulting firm Citac Africa, Ltd and others often fell victim to political interference or high borrowing costs," says WSJ.com. But now, private industry has stepped in to close the gap. (see article)
This change means opportunity for international energy companies who are chomping at the bit to get into Nigeria's power generation and fuel products industry. Many U.S., Asian and European companies are expanding operations in Africa. In addition, this will also support recent efforts to privatize Nigeria's power plants. It’s an exciting time for the country. Read more in the Wall Street Journal Article, Africa's Richest Man Bets Big on Oil Refinery, Aliko Dangote Set to Spend $9 Billion on Refinery Project as Wave of Consumerism Sweeps the Continent.
Juan Villarreal is an international operations and business development leader who has worked in the nuclear, gas, steam and solar generation, and sensor technology industries. Juan speaks five languages and has lived and worked in Europe, Latin America, North America, and Asia.
Juan’s professional career began at GE Nuclear performing power plant startups in the U.S. and Europe. His resume also includes: Carlo Gavazzi, an Italy-based international EPC company managing construction projects for nuclear and geothermal plants; GE Nuclear in the services business as a Nuclear Service Manager in Switzerland; GE Energy’s General Manager Mexico Sales for new Gas & Steam turbines; GE Six Sigma Master Black Belt; General Manager O&M, Global Marketing & Commercial Leader, and as Global Power Generation segment leader.
Juan’s strategic approach, coupled with diverse personal experiences has enabled him to move fluidly between different cultures and business climates to achieve growth for a variety of businesses and industries in the energy sector.