Kyle Wilson recently joined Intergulf Corp. to head up the company’s new chemical division, which is aimed at locating alternative outlets for the chemicals not handled in Intergulf’s water disposal services. BIC Magazine recently visited with Wilson to learn more about him, Intergulf and the new division.
Q: What led to your position at Intergulf?
A: Intergulf is a well-established company with a long, successful history in fuel blending, marine services, waste management, recycling, water disposal and transportation. We saw an opportunity to expand into the chemical markets and leverage our cumulative knowledge and relationships. I’ve been hired to start-up the chemical division and tasked with identifying alternative outlets for chemicals Intergulf has traditionally sold into the fuel market and seek out new chemical opportunities — focusing on beneficial reuse, secondary markets, excess inventories and prime product resale. It is an exciting opportunity that is a natural fit with Intergulf’s current portfolio.
Q: What are your goals for your position?
A: To firmly establish a presence in the chemical market in the Gulf Coast and expand Intergulf’s footprint. All the major producers are current customers of Intergulf. What we’re seeing are mostly fuel opportunities, so I’m approaching these companies and looking at the chemical values and the chemical streams they might have. With the ability to handle chemicals, Intergulf is the best full-service liquid management company in the industry.
Q: What is the most important part of your position?
A: Relationships. Most recently, I was employed as North American supply chain director at Monument Chemical and was responsible for procurement of feedstock, logistics and customer service. I had the opportunity to establish quality relationships at a variety of petrochemical producers and because of that, I know the products and have the relationships that allow Intergulf to maximize value for their customers.
Q: What is your best management tactic?
A: Build a strong team and cultivate the talents of the team. A strong team will always outperform a group of individuals that do not work well together. By selecting the right talent, leveraging skillsets and focusing on SMART goals, a strong team will continually exceed expectations and accomplish more while requiring less time and headcount.
I learned early in my career not everyone can stay within one’s comfort zone and be successful. I believe one must continue to challenge oneself to grow by constantly stepping out of what is comfortable to gain knowledge and learn.
I ask a lot of questions and read even more. I am not always comfortable asking, as it may be perceived as weakness, but I know with the answer and information I will be better prepared and understand better as a result. As Albert Einstein once said, “It is not that I am so smart, I just stay with the questions much longer.”
By practicing this, I have been able to absorb a tremendous amount of knowledge and perform at a high level throughout my career.
Q: What is a “fun fact” about you most people might not know?
A: I am a proud father of three beautiful girls. I consider being a father the best thing that has happened in my life. It keeps me focused and is a constant reminder to maintain a quality work/life balance.
For more information, visit www.intergulfcorp.com, call (281) 474-4210 or email info@intergulfcorp.com.