Kamel realized how important the issue of securing competitively priced Energy resources would become for global economic growth and development whilst on internship in Shanghai. He chose to deepen his understanding of this industry by doing his postgraduate studies in Finance and Energy Commerce in Texas. When he saw the Ofgem programme he was inspired by its vision for GB and European Energy Markets and by its pioneering, independent and proactive character as an energy regulator.
Ofgem’s Graduate Development Programme provides great opportunities to get experience in various aspects of energy market design and regulation. Within a year, Kamel got actively involved in merger impact assessment, retailers marketing strategy analysis, cash out price setting mechanisms, various forecasting and strategy studies and many more interesting projects.
In Kamel’s words “The program is very flexible, if you are willing to be proactive there are opportunities on each placement to be involved in what interests you the most, and to challenge and stretch yourself.
An important part of the program is the Florence School of Regulation – “Regulation of Energy Utilities” e-learning modules, which are very thorough and well rounded. As part of this you will go to Florence for two one week blocks where you will meet leading scholars and professionals in European Energy and network with many regulators and industry people.
Most of my learning has come from my interactions with my Line Managers, who, besides being experts in their field, really take a genuine interest in helping you develop your knowledge, skills and behaviours.
In addition, HR are very good at helping you making the most of the program by recommending training, providing coaching and continuously seeking feedback which can be used to develop the Program.”
Kamel has found Ofgem people to be very knowledgeable, supportive, and friendly. “We never run out of excuses to celebrate, which make the social life within Ofgem quite rich. There is also a very lively wine club, a cinema club, sports teams etc…
My experience of Ofgem’s Graduate Development Programme so far has enabled me to develop my expertise of European energy markets in a stretching and fun environment. I highly recommend it.”