Graduate Commercial Analyst Review

For my first placement, I am in Market Change Delivery team. The MCD team plays a crucial role in driving market performance and ensuring the successful implementation of various initiatives. There are key 3 key ancillary services that we work on in MCD, these are: Response, Reserve and Reactive, these all play a different role in helping system security. They propose changes to legal documents, allow industry feedback, assess this feedback, and submit the changes to Ofgem for approval. This process ensures fair and competitive market development. They hold in-person and online events to understand market needs and implement changes that benefit stakeholders, increase competition, and reduce costs.

I have learnt some basic python when working on a cost-benefit analysis assessing auction timings. I have developed a lot of soft skills including time management, organisation, document writing, presentation skills and general communication skills. There is plenty of opportunity to learn skills that are outside of your role. Coding was something that I had wanted to develop and everyone is so supportive and encouraging. They also run a 'Coding Cafe' as well as having access to LinkedIn Learning.

Yes. I have also done a placement year here where I managed a team of 6 analysts for a month whilst my manager was on leave. You are treated as a normal employee and are given several opportunities to take on additional responsibilites.

Plenty. You have a placement manager who you will work with in a team. You also have a talent coordinator who will support you throughout your 18 month grad scheme. You also have a buddy who is a previous grad as well as the rest of your cohort. My experience has been so great because of the amazing friends I have made within NESO. Everyone is friendly and it has such a welcoming and kind culture. It is one of the best things about NESO.

The company culture is great. It is arguably the best part of NESO. Everyone has a true passion about paving the way to a better future and achieving Net Zero. That passion comes across in the way that people are so happy to help you, share ideas with you, explain their role and how keen they are to learn about yours. It is a very welcoming place and there are lots of Employee Resource Groups that celebrate us as individuals such as Emerge (new starters), Pride at NESO, Faith at work, DiverseAbilities etc..

I love my placement year so much that I have come back on the graduate scheme. Now half way through my first rotation on the graduates scheme (3 x 6 month placements), I recognise how much I have achieved so far and I am excited for what is to come.

Yes

Be yourself. Learn about NESO's role and responsibilities and how you can help support our initiatives. NESO website has plenty of information about who we are, what we do and general energy sector information. Do not expect to know everything as there is so much to learn.