Q & A with Mark Copley - CEO of Energy Traders Europe

What aspects of energy trading particularly appeal to you?

The speed, complexity, knowledge and, most importantly, the fact it contributes to positive outcomes for customers across Europe. As someone who was a regulator for nearly 10 years – that matters to me.

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise most people who know you.

Before I fell into energy I was a teacher in Ukraine and was paid a tiny amount extra per hour because Bila Tserkva was considered close to Chernobyl (it's about 200km).

If you could have dinner with one historical figure, who would it be? What about someone who is alive today?

Soppy answer. I'd introduce my wife and daughter to my grandpa (who they never met). He wanted to be a policeman, but had dodgy eyesite (like me) so wasn't allowed to be. So he did it anyway – working free of charge and becoming an inspector in the special constabulary – and doing a milk round to pay the bills. There's a stubborn streak in the Copley family.

What do you bring to the Board?

I think that’s for my Board colleagues to judge. I’d like to think I set high standards, work hard, care about getting the best outcome for all members and occasionally come up with a good idea or two.

How do your personal values and beliefs align with Energy Traders Europe’s values?

I wouldn't work here if they didn't fully align. I believe that the only way to meet the massive challenges which Europe faces – of decarbonising (which I think is incredibly important), keeping the lights on and keeping prices as low and competitiveness as high as possible – is to work together. The arguments we make – for a single set of market rules, for stability and for policies which make markets work better – make it more likely we achieve these goals.

What’s your favourite happy hour drink?

I'm not sure I'd necessarily limit it to one. But I'll have a pint please.

How do you stay abreast of the latest industry trends, developments, and market dynamics to ensure informed decision-making?

A fabulous team who are experts in different parts of the energy market and 150 member companies who are quick to let me know if we've missed something.

What are some of your favorite hobbies or activities to unwind and relax?

I love cricket, but I have next to no talent. I've played for a village in Kent for the last 20 years with no obvious improvement.

What was your first job?

I did a weeks work experience at Thames Valley Auto Trader magazine in Reading – I earned 50p because I sold an advert with a photo in the magazine (I don't remember what I spent it on). Through school and university I worked in Homebase – a DIY store. If the energy trading goes wrong, I can fall back on being a pretty good lawnmower salesman and knowing how to mix paint.

What were your favourite subjects in school?

I was a swot – I quite liked everything. I started economics in the 6th form (so I was about 16) and have loved it ever since.

What personal experiences or lessons have shaped your approach to leadership and decision-making?

I was told early in my career to steal the best parts of everyone I've ever worked with – so I try to keep learning. I try and keep a sense of humour, do the right thing by my team and keep a bit of perspective. I'm incredibly fortunate.

Can you give us a peek into what’s on your bucket list?

That's for Marta and Gabi to decide. But going to see grey whales in the sea of cortez is right up there.