Stefan H.
About me
| Stefan H. | |
| Economics and Related Studies | |
| Economics & Econometrics | |
| Taught Postgraduate | |
| Wentworth | |
| 1999 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Director of Analysis | |
| Vattenfall | |
| Germany | |
| Environment and energy | |
| Large business (250+ employees) | |
| 2002 |
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A day in the life of a Director of Analysis in Germany
I’m a very mathematical person so going for a mathematical degree and then working in an analytical role was a natural choice.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
Vattenfall is a large Swedish energy company - based in several countries including Sweden, the Netherlands, Germany and the UK. There is a strong focus on renewable energy, and Vattenfall describes its purpose as enabling fossil free living within one generation.
What do you do?
I lead the Analysis department within the energy trading unit of Vattenfall. My job is to ensure we have the analytical competence needed to succeed in an increasingly data driven environment. The analysts develop models and analyse data in order to provide decision automation and decision support for the unit.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I’m a very mathematical person so going for a mathematical degree and then working in an analytical role was a natural choice. At the time of my graduation the energy markets were being liberalised, offering great opportunities for graduates.
I had honestly never thought about a management role, but the opportunity presented itself early in my career. The main appeal of leadership is the people management aspect: especially coaching junior analysts. Making strategic choices is very fulfilling too.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
I really did not have a solid plan of which sector I wanted to work in. I was good at mathematics. I thought perhaps banking might suit me. But I’m glad it worked out differently as I think I have ended up in a company with a strong social purpose and very positive working environment. I did not consider ‘purpose’ as a major criteria for a potential employer when I graduated, but I understand that graduates today do; and that’s a good thing.
Describe your most memorable day at work
When working at Enron in London I still very vividly remember the day we were told that the company is going into administration and we were all sent home. I mention this because while it was not a happy experience, it shaped my future and motivated me to take a job abroad. This has shaped my life in a really positive way. It shows how little control we have, but how by making the best of the choices we do have, things can work out really well.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
There are many challenges: there is a lot of pressure to deliver, while at the same the complexity of what we do is very high. For this we need to hire really talented people and to keep them motivated with interesting and challenging work. Analysts constantly need new challenges, so keeping things the same is never an option.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
I’m lucky enough to work for an organisation where health and work-life balance are valued very highly. Day-to-day work can be stressful in a trading unit, but the values of the organisation serve as an important counterweight. You can’t be successful unless you look after your main assets: the people.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
Honestly, between trying to study hard and making the most of the social setting (yes, drinking beer) I didn’t really have the appetite for extracurricular activities. It’s also not really something I look for especially when looking for candidates. However, if there is something that you like and motivates you a lot, it can be a great chance to learn, and learning is always good.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Don’t be too concerned if you don’t know exactly what kind of work you want to do yet. The best thing is to try things out.
Intrinsic motivation comes from mastery, autonomy and purpose. Working in something you are likely to be good at, at an organisation that gives you flexibility and fits with your values is likely to give you the most satisfaction.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
I’m open to answer questions on anything that I might have something sensible to say about…
Next steps...
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