In this episode, we welcome Gemma Stephenson, Business Development Manager at Cargill Bio industrial, whose journey spans from the lab bench in tribology to shaping sustainability conversations across the lubricants industry.
Gemma’s story is one of curiosity, courage, and purpose. From her early days testing blends and MTM machines to presenting at international conferences, she’s built a career that proves passion, and persistence can rewrite preconceptions of what a “lubricants career” looks like.
Key Takeaways
From Lab to Leadership
Gemma began her career in Croda’s labs, testing lubricants and solving technical problems. What hooked her? The mix of science, real-world application, and a team of equally “bonkers” enthusiasts.
Breaking Perceptions
She faced the early stigmas of a male-dominated, “stuffy” industry head on, proving that the sector isn’t dull, but dynamic. Supported by mentors like John Eastwood, she grew from presenting data to influencing strategy.
Sustainability with Substance
Today, Gemma’s work sits at the crossroads of sustainability and business outcomes. From product carbon footprints (PCF) to lifecycle assessments, she champions making sustainability useful, practical, and customer-focused rather than abstract jargon.
The Rise of Sustainability Managers
Gemma sees first-hand how sustainability professionals are emerging as decision-makers in the lubricants supply chain. Bringing a “translation lens” to purchasing, technical, and commercial discussions.
Collaboration is Key
Her strongest insight? Progress accelerates when the industry stops working in silos. “Talk to each other,” she says. Real change comes from OEMs, additive companies, regulators, and suppliers sharing perspectives and aligning action.
STEM and the Next Generation
Beyond her day job, Gemma is passionate about outreach. Whether it’s speaking at schools with cereal-box wind turbines or helping launch the UKLA/UEIL STEM programme, she’s on a mission to inspire the next generation to see lubricants as exciting, impactful, and never boring.
Connect with Gemma
• Gemma Stephenson on LinkedIn
• Cargill Bio industrial
• UEIL Sustainability Committee
Why Listen?
If you’ve ever thought lubricants were “dull,” this episode will change your mind. Gemma brings energy, honesty, and practical insight to the sustainability conversation. Reminding us that purpose, collaboration, and curiosity are what drive real progress.
Tune in to hear how a lab scientist became a visible advocate for change, why sustainability must be woven into every CVP, and what it really takes to inspire both today’s buyers and tomorrow’s talent.