Have you always wanted to work with numbers? If not, how did you end up in this field?
I’ve always been interested in facts and figures, and I’ve always enjoyed analysing things, which is why I decided to study industrial biochemistry after school. I abandoned my original plan to do an MBA afterwards when I couldn’t resist the opportunity to take part in a graduate training programme in international banking in New York City. Wall Street was an incredible experience and it was there that I first encountered corporate finance – which, after all, is all about figures, facts and analysis. When I returned to Germany, it was clear that I wanted to continue my career in finance.
You’ve worked for several other European energy companies. What do you like most about working in the energy sector?
The energy market interests me because it’s based on science, which I find really fascinating. I also like the fact that the sector is constantly in the public eye and almost everyone has an opinion about it. But what I like most about the energy sector is that it’s currently undergoing a massive transformation and we’re in the process of laying the foundations for a sustainable future, both environmentally and economically. That gives me a very tangible and strong sense of purpose.
Why did you choose Mabanaft? Had you heard of Mabanaft before?
To be honest, I’d never heard of Mabanaft before, and when I was approached about the role, I had to do a bit of research first. To find out whether Mabanaft is a pioneer in the energy market or just a ‘bandwagon jumper’ – as the latter wouldn’t have interested me. To find out where the company stands on the energy transition, as I’m a strong advocate but also a pragmatist, and it had to be a good fit in that respect too. To learn about Mabanaft’s vision and mission, as I need to be able to identify with them. Last but not least, I also chose Mabanaft because I felt that, whilst making a real contribution, I would also enjoy the work and enjoy working with the people here!
What are the key insights from your time at the companies you previously worked for that you can bring to Mabanaft?
In our day-to-day work, we’re all shaped by our own culture, the corporate culture and the culture of the people around us. These influences determine our behaviour, our performance and, ultimately, the company’s success – which is why these issues require a great deal of attention. This becomes particularly important when change is on the horizon, as each of us deals with change differently. In today’s world, characterised by volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity, constant change is essential – reactive change is crucial for survival, but proactive change is the key to success. Another important aspect closely linked to culture and change is communication. Today, communication no longer operates according to the traditional command-and-control principle, where people simply wait and then carry out instructions. Rather, communication today is like a multi-lane road on which we are constantly sending and receiving – and in more ways than ever before. My most important insight is that the key to successfully dealing with culture, change and communication lies above all in mutual proactivity – and that we should not be afraid to ask when we do not understand something, to clarify when something is unclear, and to search when we cannot find something.
