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3rd Mar 2025

Celebrating 60 years of Dolphin Drilling: A conversation with Lesley Allan, Office Manager

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As Dolphin Drilling turns 60, we're reflecting on the incredible contributions of our long-standing team members. In this article, we chat with Lesley Allan, our Office Manager, about her journey with the company, her standout memories, and the invaluable role she plays in keeping Dolphin running smoothly.

Lesley has been part of the Dolphin team for 28 years, playing a key role in overseeing daily operations, managing administrative functions, coordinating office activities, and ensuring seamless communication across departments. She shares her experiences, offering insight into what it’s like to work in a positive work environment.

How did you start your journey at Dolphin Drilling?

I began my journey with Dolphin Drilling in 1997 as Secretary to the Managing Director. It was an exciting start to my career with the company. From there, my career has evolved significantly at Dolphin, holding the following roles: Marketing Administrator, Marketing Coordinator and my current role as Office Manager.

Each role has provided valuable opportunities for professional growth, enabling me to contribute to the company’s success in meaningful ways. One of the aspects I enjoy most is organising events for both our employees and clients. These events not only strengthen relationships and create a sense of community (something we truly value) but also reflect the company’s culture of teamwork and engagement, something I take great pride in being a part of.

How would you describe the company culture?

Dolphin creates a supportive, family-like culture that makes it a welcoming and enjoyable place to work. Flexibility is a key part of our environment, empowering employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance while taking on new challenges. With continuous opportunities for career growth, team members are encouraged to develop their skills, explore different roles, and advance within the company.

While our core values have remained consistent, the company culture has evolved over the years, adapting to industry shifts, internal transformations, and global challenges like COVID-19. Through it all, Dolphin has maintained its strong sense of commitment to its people.

What makes Dolphin different from other companies you’ve previously worked at?

Dolphin’s close-knit culture and straightforward reporting structure ensure clear and efficient communication. The strong sense of teamwork and support among colleagues creates a positive atmosphere where collaboration thrives and productivity flourishes.

What company value resonates with you most?

Trust is fundamental to how we operate, it is at the heart of every interaction with employees, clients, suppliers and anyone else we engage with. Without trust, it would be impossible to build strong relationships.

What has kept you committed and motivated to Dolphin for so long?

The company culture, which, as I mentioned earlier, values flexibility and responsibility, has been a big factor in keeping me engaged. I also enjoy the variety of duties, and the fast-paced nature of the job, no two days are the same, so it keeps me on my toes.

What lessons have you learned during your time at Dolphin?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of adaptability. Over the years, I’ve taken on different roles, worked with various teams, and navigated changes within the industry—all of which have reinforced the value of being open to new challenges.

Any words of wisdom for employees just starting out their journey with Dolphin?

Take full advantage of the opportunities you’re given. Be respectful to your colleagues and treat them the way you’d like to be treated. With the variety of work and experiences available here, there’s so much to learn - so go all in!

How would you like to see the company evolve in the next decade?

I would like to see the company grow successfully and establish itself as the best drilling contractor—a goal that Dolphin has been working to achieve during my time with the company.