From the EIC Members’ comment
The
BIG question
How can energy companies future-proof their businesses?
The energy landscape in the UK and the world as a whole is changing drastically as we continue to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and a centralised grid. But how can companies stay ahead of the curve? Energy Focus puts the question to three members
Ford Garrard Managing Director of Europe, Middle East and Africa at Airswift As digitalisation takes hold of the energy sector, companies can adapt in a number of ways to future-proof their businesses. First, companies need to provide development opportunities to stop employees moving into fields including aerospace and defence to work with new technology, such as artificial intelligence and robotics. For example, the 2018 Global Energy Talent Index Report (GETI), the world’s largest energy recruitment and employment trends report, highlights that over a third of oil and gas and renewables professionals are happier due to training and development
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It’s about understanding the transferable nature of skills and backgrounds and taking a less rigid approach to recruitment opportunities. So, to retain top performers, it’s essential that companies empower them with the tools to take control of their careers. Second, digitalisation requires specialist tech talent, and attracting candidates from other industries will be vital. The renewables sector has done a good job of achieving this and there’s no reason other sub-sectors can’t do the same. According to GETI, cyber-
security and data analytics skills will be most in demand. For the energy industry, it’s about understanding the transferable nature of skills and backgrounds and taking a less rigid approach to recruitment. Finally, the future is flexible. Energy firms can’t drag their feet in embracing digitally-enabled working practices, such as remote or flexible working. Alongside providing new challenges for existing workers, this is another key aspect of the vibrant working environment that companies will need to create to retain and attract talent in the coming years.
Airswift is the global workforce services partner of choice for clients, contractors and candidates