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- Tasks: Lead energy trading strategy and manage risk for public sector customers.
- Company: LASER Energy is a top energy consultancy, part of the UK's largest local authority-owned trading organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, bonus schemes, health plans, and tailored development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape energy procurement while driving innovation and making a social impact in local communities.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in energy trading, strong knowledge of UK markets, and strategic thinking skills required.
- Other info: Hybrid working available; commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
The predicted salary is between 66837 - 93569 ÂŁ per year.
Join to apply for the Head of Trading & Risk role at LASER Energy – part of Commercial Services Group
Take the lead on energy trading strategy at a national level.
We’re seeking a forward-thinking Head of Trading and Risk to join our team at LASER Energy. This is a unique opportunity to shape energy procurement strategy across the public sector, managing risk and unlocking value through innovation.
Who we are
LASER is a leading energy and carbon consultancy which is part of the Commercial Services Group (CSG) – the UK’s largest local authority‑owned trading organisation. We support hundreds of public sector customers with procurement, carbon reduction, and energy strategy, reinvesting profits into local communities. In the years of 2020‑2024 LASER spent £2.6bn purchasing energy on behalf of our customers.
Why this role matters
This is a pivotal leadership role overseeing LASER’s energy trading and risk management strategy. The Head of Trading and Risk ensures value for money for public sector customers through compliant, forward‑thinking procurement. As part of the senior management team, you’ll contribute to strategic growth while driving operational and financial resilience.
What you’ll be doing
- Lead and implement flexible energy procurement strategies aligned with risk policies
- Develop and coach the energy procurement team to deliver successful trading outcomes
- Ensure all procurement activities comply with public sector and internal regulations
- Oversee trading positions and ensure accuracy in supplier reconciliations and purchasing
- Lead on innovation and development of new procurement services aligned with market needs
- Manage benchmarking and value‑for‑money tools for performance reporting
- Head quarterly governance panels, ensuring full documentation and delivery of outcomes
- Represent LASER at senior stakeholder engagements including government, regulators, and suppliers
- Design and implement a robust risk management framework across the energy portfolio
- Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and collaboration
What we’re looking for
- Extensive experience leading high‑performing energy trading teams at senior level
- Strong knowledge of UK energy markets, regulatory frameworks and trading platforms
- Proven experience in flexible procurement strategies and public sector procurement
- Expertise in market, credit and operational risk management
- Strategic thinker with a track record of innovation in procurement services
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills across all levels
- Experience with risk modelling tools, PPAs, sleeving and hedging (desirable)
- Financially astute with excellent analytical and decision‑making abilities
What you’ll get in return
- 25 days annual leave, plus your birthday off
- Bonus Scheme
- Life assurance cover (4x salary)
- Pension scheme with up to 6% employer contribution
- Additional benefits including retail and gym discounts, health cash plan and cycle to work scheme
- Volunteer days and access to a comprehensive wellbeing programme
- Tailored learning and development support with real opportunities to progress
Why CSG?
Commercial Services Group (CSG) is the UK’s largest local authority‑owned trading company (LATCO), generating over £800 million in revenue and supporting 16,000 education and public sector customers worldwide. With more than 1,800 employees across the UK, France, Dubai and Bangkok, we are working towards becoming the global leader in education and public sector solutions.
We are expanding rapidly, with annual growth of around 25 percent, supported by a blend of organic development, acquisitions and strategic partnerships. Our 33 trading businesses deliver a wide range of services including education management, IT, HR, legal, energy, procurement and supplies.
CSG is wholly owned by local authorities, and a significant proportion of our profits is reinvested into frontline public services. Over ÂŁ77 million has already been returned, reflecting our commitment to combining commercial performance with meaningful social impact.
Inclusion & Accessibility
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We encourage applications from suitably qualified people of all backgrounds.
We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our application and interview process; please let us know if you require any.
Seniority level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Management
Industries
Utilities and Services for Renewable Energy
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Head of Trading & Risk employer: LASER Energy - part of Commercial Services Group
Contact Detail:
LASER Energy - part of Commercial Services Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Trading & Risk
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the energy trading sector. Attend industry conferences, webinars, and local meetups to connect with key players and learn about the latest trends. This can help you gain insights into what LASER Energy is looking for in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific regulatory frameworks and trading platforms mentioned in the job description. Understanding these will not only prepare you for potential interview questions but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and the organisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading high-performing teams and implementing innovative procurement strategies. Use specific examples that highlight your achievements and how they align with LASER's goals of value for money and operational resilience.
✨Tip Number 4
Research LASER Energy’s recent projects and initiatives. Being knowledgeable about their current operations and challenges will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews, showing that you are proactive and genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Trading & Risk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your extensive experience in energy trading and risk management. Focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your leadership skills and knowledge of UK energy markets.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your strategic thinking and innovative approaches to procurement services. Mention how your background aligns with LASER's mission and values, particularly in supporting public sector customers.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your expertise in flexible procurement strategies, market risk management, and stakeholder engagement. Use specific examples to illustrate your communication skills and ability to lead high-performing teams.
Showcase Your Vision: In your application, convey your vision for the future of energy procurement and risk management. Discuss how you would implement innovative strategies that align with LASER's goals and contribute to operational resilience.
How to prepare for a job interview at LASER Energy - part of Commercial Services Group
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Head of Trading and Risk, you'll need to demonstrate your extensive experience in leading high-performing teams. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the energy sector, focusing on your strategic decision-making and innovation.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the UK energy markets and regulatory frameworks. Be ready to discuss how these regulations impact procurement strategies and risk management, as this knowledge will be crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement Scenarios
Since you'll represent LASER at senior stakeholder engagements, think about past experiences where you've effectively communicated with various stakeholders. Prepare to discuss how you can foster collaboration and accountability within the team.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
The role requires strong analytical abilities, especially in financial decision-making. Be prepared to discuss your experience with risk modelling tools and how you've used data to drive successful trading outcomes.
