Imagine receiving an email that could change the trajectory of your career. That’s exactly what happened to me on March 6th, 2023, when Helen Rints from WUN sent out an exciting email detailing the possibility of receiving a scholarship to study for an MBA programme called Sustainable Energy Futures. This programme, consisting of MBA modules aimed at tackling challenges unique to the utilities industry and a Level 7 Systems Thinking Practitioner apprenticeship at Strathclyde Business School, was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

Since 2016, I have been immersed in the energy industry, beginning as a billing administrator in ENGIE’s supply business in Leeds. In 2017, I joined the ENGIE UK Commercial Development graduate scheme, which led me to relocate to London—a significant move for someone from a humble Northern working-class background. My journey began with a master’s degree in Physics from Nottingham, followed by building my career in Leeds. In London, I navigated various graduate placements, ultimately settling in Shift Trading for two years, where I gained a deep understanding of the UK markets and their drivers, especially during the global pandemic. Currently, I am part of the origination team, where I lead initiatives to forge strategic partnerships and drive commercial growth for ENGIE’s UK platform, all while mastering the complexities of power energy market dynamics.

When I received Helen’s email about the WUN scholarship, I had only briefly considered MBAs and Energy Policy master’s programs—nothing concrete. Yet, I felt this opportunity had come to me for a reasonBeing relatively new to my origination career, I had the time and space to embark on this journey. Driven by the belief that you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take, I dived headfirst into the application process and ultimately succeeded.

The most transformative aspect of the MBA program is undoubtedly the network and relationships forged with fellow students. We began as a group of 12, , each member brings a unique and fascinating background—ranging from gas regulation and hydrogen development to distribution network operations, councils, water utilities, construction, and energy consultancies. The advanced, thought-provoking discussions that unfold around complex MBA topics are truly remarkable. I feel incredibly fortunate in my career to witness and participate in these enriching exchanges.

Systems Thinking Apprenticeship

The apprenticeship aspect of the MBA programme emphasises systems thinking, a transformative approach that employs models and methodologies to map and address workforce challenges, plan scenarios, and design interventions. Initially, this concept can be mind-bending, but with persistence, it becomes mind-changing. By adopting this broader perspective, I can better understand all stakeholders in my commercial role and strategically plan interactions and interventions for maximum commercial value. Systems thinking is not just a skill but a crucial leadership capability for the future, essential for navigating our increasingly complex and uncertain world—especially as a leader in the energy transition.

Leadership Development

The MBA modules have undoubtedly accelerated my leadership development and capabilities. This programme offers a powerful combination of learning new concepts and gaining insights from classmates who have faced these challenges in real-life situations. This dual approach ensures that I am not only prepared for the complexities of senior roles but also equipped to handle them with confidence and competence. By mastering these essential skills now, I am laying a solid foundation for my future as an effective leader. My expertise now spans accounting, finance, business analytics, decision analysis, economics, human resources, business planning, marketing, corporate governance, and project management, all of which will be invaluable as I advance in my career.

ENGIE have been a steadfast pillar of support throughout my journey, for which I am profoundly grateful. The apprenticeship compliance necessitates dedicating work hours to my studies, and every six weeks, I travel to Glasgow for in-person seminars. Driven by an insatiable thirst for progression and personal development (hence the MBA among other pursuits!), I have continually pushed myself in my full-time role as an originator, embracing nearly every opportunity that comes my way. My responsibilities and experience have grown significantly, transitioning from a junior team member to one of the most senior and experienced, all while navigating the departure of colleagues and training new joiners. Managing the workload of origination, an MBA, and a Level 7 apprenticeship has been far from easy; it has demanded considerable social sacrifices. Currently, I am compiling the necessary documentation for the apprenticeship gateway, completing a 3,000-word reflective essay on strategic leadership development, and preparing an 8,000-word report on a systems thinking-oriented project, alongside a presentation and a four-hour interview. Additionally, I have three MBA modules left to complete, with a dissertation period next spring/summer involving a 12,000-word report.

In conclusion, embarking on this MBA and Systems Thinking Apprenticeship has been a transformative journey, pushing me to new heights both personally and professionally. The challenges have been immense, but the rewards are unparalleled. This experience has not only equipped me with advanced leadership skills but also a profound understanding of the energy sector’s complexities. For anyone considering such a path, remember: the journey is demanding, but the growth and opportunities it brings are truly worth every effort. Embrace the challenge, and you might just find yourself thriving in ways you never imagined.

Della Newton, UK Originator, Global Energy Management & Sales, Engie.