What sparked your interest in pursuing a career with Energy Traders Europe?
I started my professional career in finance, in the front office, and shortly after I had the opportunity to jump from financial to energy markets, when the latter began to develop. The combination of both is really challenging. To be engaged with Energy Traders Europe gave me the opportunity to expand my vision and knowledge at all levels
What aspects of energy trading particularly appeal to you?
You never get bored, it is intense, demanding, dynamic, ever-changing and challenging.
What surprised you when you entered energy trading?
The key role of this activity to manage properly your assets
If you could be whisked away tomorrow to your dream holiday destination, where would it be and why?
Any place with a combination of sea, mountains and forest. It gives me peace of mind and energy at the same time.
What role do you envision energy traders playing in driving the transition to a more sustainable energy future?
Energy trading is the most efficient way to optimize the whole energy value chain in terms of prices and volumes, while achieving the targets sets by European energy and climate policy. Other ways to achieve these goals, that interfere with the market activity, have been proven to be less efficient.
If you could have dinner with one historical figure, who would it be?
Simone de Beauvoir
What about someone who is alive today?
Barak Obama
As a board member, what key responsibilities do you hold to effectively contribute to the association's success?
From a general point of view, the promotion of the association as a key partner in the energy market design and new developments. As member of the financial subcommittee, I am fully devoted and engaged to propose the best options for the proper functioning of the association
What do you bring to the Board?
30 years of experience (!) in both the financial and energy sector… enthusiasm, paired with the commitment to get things done well.
What is one of your proudest achievements, and what lessons did you learn from it?
To have a balance between my personal and my professional live. I have learnt that everything is possible with good organization and some anticipation
What principles and ethical considerations guide your approach to board responsibilities and decision-making?
Loyalty, honesty and respect
How do you stay abreast of the latest industry trends, developments, and market dynamics to ensure informed decision-making?
Working in close collaboration with different areas of the company, exchanging views, and sharing knowledge with them, is critical to being on the front line. I am lucky to work with excellent professionals, including those within Energy Traders Europe; which is essential for success.
What are your strategies for effectively managing stress and maintaining a balanced life amidst demanding responsibilities?
Organization and prioritization are my main daily tools. A walk by the sea from time to time is critical to get strength.
What are some of your favourite hobbies or activities to unwind and relax?
Almost any outdoor activity: walking, trekking, skiing in winter, horseback riding. Also oil painting
How has the evolving energy landscape, including the transition to renewables and geopolitical tensions, impacted the European energy market?
New market participants, new and more ambitious climate targets and new products have introduced more complexity in the dynamics and interactions of the energy markets. It is a challenge to combine all elements, and policy makers have set complex regulations trying to fit all the pieces of the puzzle.
How do you see the future of the European energy market, and what potential challenges and opportunities do you anticipate?
I see an integrated energy market, absolutely carbon free with a high level of energy independence. This will bring opportunities for further renewables deployment, research in new generation technologies, expansion and digitalization of grids, consumer products innovation, and overall, more energy efficiency and awareness of the importance of the energy
Where did you grow up?
In Madrid, in the city centre
What was your first job?
Financial analyst at Redeia (Spanish TSO). Previously I worked a couple of summers as an assistant in the family business.
Can you give us a peek into what’s on your bucket list?
Some pending travel destinations…