Philippa Hayward

Technical Pre Sales Manager

Expert in: Digital Twins

Philippa Hayward profile picture

About Philippa

I decided to study Chemical Engineering after my high-school Chemistry teacher encouraged me to attend a taster course at a local university promoting the subject to female students. I was drawn to the mix of practical and theoretical work, and the opportunity to apply my scientific skills to solve real-world problems. As a result, I earned a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Cambridge. My education has enabled me to help clients and colleagues worldwide working in traditional and emerging industries ranging from Oil and Gas to Green Energy.  

For over two decades, I've been fortunate to work on several valuable initiatives at KBC. Initially, I developed technology for the predecessor to Petro-SIM simulation software suite, creating models for refinery processes and crude oil representations - part of that code still exists today. In 2000, I transitioned to a software support function, helping clients use the software to design, monitor, troubleshoot and optimize their facilities. During my time at KBC, I have led both the European and global simulation support groups and have spent a year in product management.

Currently, I serve as a Pre-Sales Manager in our Digital Technology business. I work with clients to select and develop solutions which will help them leverage their data to make better decisions and optimize their assets' value. Process simulation and data together make powerful decision-making tools in the form of Digital Twins – an exciting growth area which I am now championing.

Outside of work, I love exploring my adopted home of Belgium by foot and bicycle, catching live theatre productions on both sides of the English Channel and singing with my choir.