David Williams
What is your background?
Brought up in northwest England, I ventured south to Bath University for my undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering. After graduation, while working on renewable energy projects in Japan and China, my interest in the policy, economics and regulation of the field was ignited and so upon return to England I undertook a Masters degree in Energy Policy from the University of Exeter. Following a number of years working on strategy and policy of renewable energy, I joined ECA in summer 2013.
What’s it like working at ECA?
ECA’s philosophy towards staff is firmly focused on outputs. Confidence and trust is invested in staff from day 1, flexibility afforded and the opinions of all employees are sought and listened to. Colleagues are very supportive when required, yet personal initiative is expected. For a small team we have an incredibly diverse range of backgrounds both geographically and academically which provides a richness to discussions both of a work and non-work nature.
How will ECA help my career development/help me improve my skill set?
ECA has broadened and deepened my knowledge of the economics and policy of the energy sector, both in terms of industry areas and countries of work experience. With a huge amount of expertise held by fellow staff members, opportunities to learn new skills arise on almost every project undertaken. The fact our “typical project” is most clearly characterised by its uniqueness is a key driver in ensuring continued learning on the job.
What type of projects do you typically work on?
The projects I have been involved in during my time at ECA have bene too diverse to define a typical project. I have worked in energy efficiency regulatory development in the West Balkans, on the impact of market coupling for the United Kingdom, on renewable energy tariffs in Kazakhstan and on gas utilisation in Ghana.
Am I expected to present to clients? Who are the typical clients you work for?
I consider presenting to be one of the most enjoyable aspects of a project, allowing for personal interaction with clients which helps cement working relationships and ensure frank and open discussions are held regarding project outputs and findings which enrich the value they provide the client and give us greater satisfaction regarding what we have delivered. My clients types have spanned government departments, industry regulators and project lenders.
Which countries have you covered in your time at ECA?
In my time at ECA I have worked on projects in the UK, the West Balkans, Indonesia, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Rwanda and Ghana.
What is the best thing about working at ECA?
The people. It is a company where you feel everyone is pulling in the same direction towards common goals, where everyone has the capabilities to provide a big contribution to that effort, and yet to do this within a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.