Data Apprenticeships Prove to be a Valuable Investment in the Competitive Energy Sector
LG Energy has made apprenticeships a central part of its strategy to attract fresh talent and upskill its workforce, focusing on enhancing the overall capabilities and standards of the energy sector.
Since embracing apprenticeships, LG Energy has supported a total of 13 apprentices; 12 data apprentices and one content creator apprentice. The company has utilised both Level 3 and Level 4 apprentices, with two progressing from Level 3 to Level 4, demonstrating the apprenticeship routeways potential for career development.
This strategy has brought great success to the organisation, so we caught up with the team, who shared valuable insights on the positive impact apprentices have had on the business.
LG Energy
Founded in Blackpool in 2011, LG Energy helps businesses, especially large industrial and commercial energy users, find the right gas and electricity suppliers in the UK.
LG Energy is a market leader in energy risk management and procurement, working on a global scale and supporting businesses at all stages, from initial intelligence gathering and tendering to ongoing energy management and cost recovery. Its consulting division helps clients understand and comply with energy regulations, improve energy efficiency, and meet reporting requirements.
In short, the company’s goal is to make energy management easier for its clients through tailored procurement strategies, expert regulatory guidance, efficiency improvements, and comprehensive support.
Why Did You Choose to Hire Apprentices?
The company has consistently worked with apprentices, with a focus on introducing new talent into the sector, helping to develop skilled professionals while addressing the industry’s long-term talent needs.
“One of our main motivations was to bring fresh talent into the industry. I’ve been at LG for 12 years and have consistently had apprentices on my teams. Previous apprentices have successfully integrated into client offices, making it a valuable investment for us.”
In the energy sector, it is common for businesses to rely on a small, highly competitive talent pool, which is heightened further in regions like the North West – where many companies, like LG Energy, compete for the same prospective workforce. This competitive environment often results in inflated salary expectations that do not always align with skills or experience.
“Another reason for this initiative is the industry’s tendency to compete for a limited talent pool. By investing in training, we can cultivate loyalty and grow talent from the ground up, rather than competing for already established individuals.”
Using apprenticeships, LG Energy has been able to develop talent from the ground up, ensuring employees are trained to meet specific business needs while building loyalty and long-term commitment – all without the high costs associated with more senior team members.
This cost-effective approach not only addresses industry challenges but also introduces fresh talent into the business, strengthening its workforce for the future. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of this approach, as the industry saw many skilled workers retire or leave, creating a growing need to attract and nurture new talent.
How Have Data Apprenticeships Impacted Your Business?
The company’s operations are deeply rooted in data, beginning with metering data and extending to all aspects of consumption analysis, pricing strategies, and energy management. By integrating data apprenticeships into the business, LG Energy has gained access to fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to handling complex data challenges.
“Having apprentices has been beneficial, as they can offer fresh perspectives. The new generation is eager to learn and bring innovative ideas, which enriches our discussions.”
The energy industry, as a whole, is increasingly data-driven, and the apprentices have played a key role in supporting the company’s ability to process, analyse, and use data effectively, driving efficiency and informed decision-making. LG Energy utilises a dual approach, using apprenticeships for both new hires and workforce development.
“We’ve had several internal staff enrol on an apprenticeship, including Adam Price who started in Commercial Development and now works within the Data Team. Adam moved around as he sought to progress and develop his career.”
Data apprenticeships have significantly impacted LG Energy by enhancing both the skill set and versatility of the workforce. Several team members have used data apprenticeships to progress within the company, transitioning across departments and roles as they develop their expertise.
This dual strategy allows the company to bring fresh talent into the organisation while also upskilling current team members to enhance their expertise and allow them to grow in their careers.
What Does A Typical Day Look Like For Your Data Apprentices?
At LG Energy, this differs from case to case due to the varying nature of departments and individual data roles; some teams prioritise tasks like data system development, while others emphasise client interaction, report preparation, or supplier management.
In terms of training and building experience, apprentices will generally start with foundational tasks to build their understanding of essential processes, beginning with administrative responsibilities, such as managing data and reports, while also participating in morning discussions about the energy market to grasp how external factors influence pricing.
“The day-to-day responsibilities can vary by team, but apprentices typically start with more administrative tasks, which help them learn essential processes.”
Their roles evolve to include more dynamic tasks, such as developing data systems, attending client meetings, preparing reports to meet client needs, and managing relationships with energy suppliers. Apprentices are also actively involved in “data chasing,” ensuring suppliers provide accurate information and collaborating across various systems and portals.
This balance of routine responsibilities and opportunities for creative problem-solving allows apprentices to gain a comprehensive understanding of the energy sector while making meaningful contributions to the business.
Would you Recommend Working with Baltic Apprenticeships?
LG Energy highlighted the invaluable support they receive from Baltic, emphasising how our support and partnership have been instrumental in creating both positive company outcomes and addressing any challenges along the way.
“We feel well-supported by Baltic, both in terms of positive outcomes and challenges.”
This strong collaboration ensures that apprentices are well-supported throughout their journey, enabling LG Energy to provide a high-quality experience while promoting growth and development for both the apprentices and the business.