Head of Trading & Risk

LASER Energy - part of Commercial Services Group; West Malling; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days annual leave plus birthday off

Bonus Scheme

Life assurance cover (4x salary)

Pension scheme with 6% employer contribution

Health cash plan

Cycle to work scheme

Volunteer days

Job summary

A leading energy consultancy in the UK is looking for a Head of Trading & Risk to oversee energy trading strategy. This pivotal role includes managing flexible energy procurement aligned with regulations, coaching trading teams, and representing the company at senior engagements. Applicants should have extensive experience in energy trading leadership and knowledge of UK energy markets. The position offers a supportive environment, competitive benefits, and opportunities for career progression.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience leading energy trading teams at a senior level.
• Strong understanding of UK energy markets and regulatory frameworks.
• Expertise in procurement strategies for the public sector.

Responsibilities

• Lead and implement flexible energy procurement strategies.
• Develop and coach the energy procurement team.
• Oversee trading positions ensuring accuracy in reconciliations.
• Design and implement risk management framework.

Skills

Leadership of energy trading teams

Knowledge of UK energy markets

Stakeholder engagement skills

Analytical abilities

Innovation in procurement

Tools

Risk modelling tools

Job description

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 £77 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