Birgit Kunze

Who are you, what country do you come from and what is your job title?

I am half Nord Pool lawyer, half Nord Pool lobbyist, with sometimes one half bigger than the other (not mathematically speaking). I am German, and after some 12 years living and working in London, I am based back in Germany since 2013. I work for Nord Pool as a Senior Legal Counsel.

What do you like most about your job?

The importance of being able to shape European energy markets. The excitement of constantly being presented with new challenges. The creativity it requires to find new ways every day on how to further Nord Pool' business interests. That it allows me to work with outstandingly qualified colleagues. The friendly Scandinavian company culture.

What is the hardest part of your job?

To be always up to date with information about the latest developments in the European electricity markets - with the transition to renewables the European electricity market face the biggest shake-up probably since the liberalisation of the European energy markets in the late 1990s. With so much going on on European and national levels, it is sometimes hard not to miss an opportunity for Nord Pool.

What is the best thing about working in Nord Pool?

Definitely and by far - the best thing are the lovely colleagues and the great team spirit. We fight for the good cause and we genuinely care about developing markets for the better, and are not just single-minded about keeping hold of our privileges - as our competitor is.

What is the most exciting challenge you have had during your time at Nord Pool?

Being part of the redrafting of CACM. CACM 2.0 will reshape how Nord Pool's business will look like in the future and what opportunities Nord Pool will have in a changing European market environment.

What motivates you?

That I am able to influence and shape things through my work and that my work is appreciated by my colleagues, That at Nord Pool we are all pulling together in the same direction. That my manager allows room for my initiatives and creativity and encourages me in doing what I do and how I do it.

What do you think about working in the energy sector?

It is the most exciting sector to work in at the moment. Energy supplies touch everyone's lives from the prices we pay for plugging into the socket at home and heating our houses, to European integration (market coupling), geopolitics (Ukraine crises), and climate change (energy transition, green deal). There is hardly an issue in the news today which is not connected in some way or the other to securing future energy supplies.

How would you describe your co-workers?

Fantastic. Highly expert at what they are doing. Extremely motivated. Team players. Tough when it comes to arguing for and against different points of view in discussions and representing Nord Pool's position to the external world, but lovely when it comes to cooperation, mutual assistance and personal relationships.

Do you have any advice for people thinking of applying to work for Nord Pool?

Come and join the team! As a young person, you could not get a better start into your professional life. As an expert, you could not find a place that appreciates your contributions more. If you want to shape the future electricity markets, this is the place to be.