Meet Our Energy Movers

What made you make the move to Centrica Energy?
In choosing Centrica Energy it was extremely welcoming knowing that you are joining a global leading trading organisation who are one of the largest renewable asset managers in the EU. Looking at additional factors; it was also made clear to me that there are multiple opportunities for career development and that the management really trust the Origination team with full autonomy to pursue the right types of transactions that benefit the overall Centrica Energy portfolio. Having been employed for nearly 2 years now, I can also add the culture of the organisation is excellent; my colleagues are all professional with an entrepreneurial spirit. This is coupled with a caring approach allowing for flexible conditions in supporting with family and home life.

What does an Originator do?
As an Originator, I am the market expert who talks to clients about structuring long term agreements known as PPAs. These apply to both generation assets such as wind, solar, (upstream) and downstream activities where we aspire to help corporates achieve their renewable energy goals through corporate PPAs. I am in a customer-facing role whilst also maintaining strong internal relationships to ensure each bespoke opportunity can be managed internally, whilst delivering on our contractual obligations externally. Being an Originator also means ‘thinking’ outside the box and developing creative ideas in an ever changing complex market.

What’s your favourite thing about being an Energy Mover at Centrica Energy?
This is hard to answer but I would start by stating that I love how every day is different. One day I am deeply embedded in valuation models, analysing pricing methodology to make sure we are competitive, and the next day I am in a board room juggling with lawyers to agree on specific clauses.  My role is both exciting and challenging, as there is always something new to learn. Being involved in so many different challenges means that I can also say that my job is extremely fun and continues to drive career progression/experience; I also love meeting with new and existing clients; so it is refreshing to be working in a customer facing role. Furthermore, I really enjoy working on complex arrangements that are helping drive the green transition and making a difference to the renewable ambitions in the UK and Europe.

Can you tell us about an achievement you’re proud of?
The most notable achievement has been securing a cPPA with Vodafone from Centrica’s first ever newly developed Solar Farm. Vodafone are purchasing half of the electricity output from the solar farm, helping to support its own development and corporate green ambitions. The additional renewable power is delivered to National Grid

What’s your best advice for someone wanting to make the move and join the energy industry?
Having a passion for working in energy definitely helps; having passion in anything you pursue I believe can only have a positive impact. To specifically go into trading I would say a background in Finance is also helpful, it’s not essential as there are programmes which take on people of all backgrounds, but it is very likely to increase chances of employment. Focusing on Origination, I would add to the above some characteristics that also might help in terms of personal profile; having a positive attitude with strong communication skills. The ability to adapt in stressful situations whilst maintaining company value/objectives. Lastly, I would say being friendly and outgoing can also help.

What should someone dreaming of becoming an Energy Mover know about Centrica Energy?
People reading this may think I am biased but based on my experience from two other utilities/Trading Companies, the first thing that stands out at Centrica Energy is the culture. The company actively reviews employment conditions and is always promoting flexibility, The CE leadership team consistently listens to employees. Centrica Energy are really at the forefront of making sure employees are well looked after, well rewarded and appreciated. Secondly, you should know that we are a company that truly embraces fun. We work on fun exciting opportunities, we have lots of positive/fun people we have lots of fun team events.