Leadership Lessons with… Alex Gray, Head of Public Affairs at Energy UK

Leadership Lessons with… Alex Gray, Head of Public Affairs at Energy UK

Balancing complex details with emotive topics, an inspiring Chief Executive, and knowing that you might not always be everyone’s best friend. We recently spoke with Alex Gray, long-time Public Affairs pro and current Head of PA at Energy UK all about his career to date, and the challenges that come with a public role in the energy sector.

Take a look.

What drove you to a career in public affairs?

An interest in politics, certainly. But I knew that the ‘traditional’ political route wasn’t for me, and I was much more interested in business and politics and how those fit together.

I was also very passionate about climate change and net zero. Right now, there’s a bigger theme in the energy sector – economic growth, establishing more jobs, warmer homes, lower bills and so on. Those all really piqued my interest, and I landed in the middle of that Venn diagram.

What would you say is the biggest challenge you’ve overcome in your career? 

Being in a position to represent an industry publicly during a crisis like the energy sector underwent was quite a challenge. Not only the pace of it, but dealing with some very complex issues. Particularly as it’s such an emotive subject. It impacts practically every individual and every business.

What do you think has contributed to your professional success?

Having a calm head and a good understanding of politics is key. And a keen eye on trends and patterns, and how those may affect the sector six months down the line is really important.

There tends to be two kinds of Public Affairs professionals: those who are really process- and detail-driven, and those who build connections quickly and have a good sense for different personality types. Both extremely important, but I would describe myself as the latter.

Who’s been the most inspiring person you’ve worked with?

Our Chief Executive is really quite amazing to work with. She comes from a political background herself, so observing how she blends politics with people is very inspiring. Watching her operate and build instant rapport with teams and associates in a way that’s quite unique is really a privilege.

Have you seen much change in Public Affairs in the last 10 years? 

In general, virtual working has certainly changed things, and in many ways, made aspects of my job much easier. It feels like you can use your time more efficiently and effectively too. Before the pandemic, you could attend three or four networking receptions a week, walk away shattered, and think, “was that really a good use of my time?” The post-COVID world has readdressed what we spend our time on. 

In the energy sector, of course climate change. It’s required us to shift our focus from thinking about 6 weeks ahead to 20 years ahead, in a way. Climate change is such a politically-charged issue, and there are a lot of complex issues that come with that in Public Affairs.

As a communicator, how would you describe yourself in three words?

Understanding – the emotional reason why a politician might come to your side. 

Simplicity – getting the message across in very digestible terms.

Integrity – very honest, and if something’s not right, I will just admit it.

With the energy sector, we’re not everyone’s best friends all the time, and knowing that has helped me in many ways. 

What would you say makes a great Public Affairs professional?

Someone who reads everything – policies, newspapers, Parliament reads, major speeches. It keeps you clued in, you’ll pick up what language is being used and how, what trends could be coming down the line, and so on.

Also being really committed to understanding geopolitics.