Remembering Alex Strang

Remembering Alex Strang

Alex Strang

When Alex Strang died in December after a short illness colleagues and friends at Caltex, Chevron and many other organisations were deeply saddened. It’s not surprising, because Alex was an influential and integral part of Caltex for over 36 years. He touched many in that time.

Alex, 58, brought a wealth of experience and integrity to his work, having excelled in a variety of management, technical and production positions within Caltex and during several secondments to the US. Among his roles were Manager of Strategic Planning, Corporate Treasurer, General Manager Manufacturing & Supply, General Manager Supply and Corporate Services and, finally, General Manager Supply & Distribution, the position he filled at the time of his death.

"Alex’s career was a shining example of the diverse and impactful career a chemical engineer can enjoy" says Managing Director Des King. "He had exceptional management and leadership talent which contributed to our corporate success over a significant period. His loss is deeply felt by his colleagues at Caltex who extend their heartfelt condolences to his wife Young, and children Jessica and William."

Alex began work at Kurnell refinery as a chemical engineer in 1972, having graduated from the University of Sydney. He helped steer the company through some challenging times. Among his more significant achievements were guiding the merger with Ampol in the 1990s and setting up the Woolworths partnership in 2003.

Last September, Alex was recognised outside of Caltex when he was awarded the Fluor award for "leadership in chemical engineering". It was typical of Alex’s nature that he immediately donated his $5,000 prize to Sydney University.

When, shortly before his death, Alex spoke about winning the Fluor award for an article in The Star he said how much he enjoyed his time at Caltex. "The award demonstrates the positive image the company has and the achievements I’ve been fortunate enough to be a part of," he said.

Alex was also a keen sportsman who played A-grade cricket and squash. He was active in the communities in which he lived – initially in the Sutherland Shire and more recently in the northern Sydney suburb of Killara.