15 Oct 10 Quickfire Questions for 10 Leading Women in Energy – CORDI O’HARA OBE FEI
To mark our 10th anniversary, we are asking 10 leading women in the UK energy sector 10 quickfire questions about their lives, their likes and what advice they would give to their 10-year-old self.
The challenge was described by one participant as intimidating but also fun and we have enjoyed the answers from these inspiring female role models. Read on!
Cordi O’Hara OBE FEI, President of National Grid Electricity Distribution
“I’m the first in the family to go to university. My father encouraged education and my mother role modelled hard work and resilience.”
- Describe yourself in three words
Ambitious, Collaborative, Messy (so my husband says!)
- What gets you up and into work in the morning?
Having had a good night’s sleep (I really believe in getting at least 7 hours and being strict about preparing for a good night – camomile tea and a good book are definitely part of the routine!). Other than that, it’s about being part of a busy family and seeing the kids before school, cuddling the dog and having a first coffee with my husband where possible. My job at National Grid gives me lots of energy – knowing we provide an essential service to millions of customers and driving the change in our energy system so that we can all benefit from a clean future.
- What was your first job?
First ever job was in Dolci’s shoe shop in Leeds City Centre. Every Saturday I’d take the one-hour bus journey to work in their basement stocking and sourcing shoes for £1.49 an hour. First job in the energy industry was in Yorkshire Electricity after finishing University.
- What has been your greatest challenge so far?
I think I’ve been blessed that in most challenging times (work or personal) I’ve had a support system around me, so that I haven’t faced anything I couldn’t ultimately solve. Whilst I could share many examples of the trials and tribulations, the most important learning has been prioritising the friendships and mentors, and having a ‘portfolio approach’ to work and life. I try to stay balanced and keep things in perspective, and then I feel more able to come through when challenge occurs.
- How do you relax and unwind after a long day?
When I’m home I love having dinner with the family and then walking the dog with my husband afterwards – it’s a great mix of physical activity and personal time to talk and catch up. If I’m away with work, it’s great to have dinner and get to know the team and have a bit of a laugh.
- What advice would you give now to your 10-year-old self?
Be bold and kind in equal measure. Say yes when asked, as much as you can, so that you get a range of critical experiences, and also put yourself forward, get out of the comfort zone. And be kind – critically to yourself so you maximise your learning and personal growth, and to others where you can pay it forward and support others to be successful.
- What change would you like to see happen within the next 10 years?
We’re at a significant point in the energy transition – it’s up to the industry working together with government and regulators to speed up the delivery and take bold action. I hope in 10 years we can look back and be proud of the step change we’ve made in evolving the energy system and reducing the impact of climate change for future generations. Even better would be that we delivered it with all of the available talent – I spend a lot of time advocating for DEI in the workplace and for our industry. I hope we can continue to embrace this opportunity to deliver our net zero plans.
- Who has supported or inspired you along your career journey?
It may seem trite, but I want to acknowledge the role my parents have played. I was the first from both sides of the family to go to university, coming from a working-class background up North. My father encouraged education as a way of creating a more prosperous future and my mother role modelled hard work and resilience (taking two jobs for a period of time to manage family finances when my father could no longer work due to cancer). Along the way I have also benefitted from forward-thinking male leaders and allies who often could see my potential better than I could at the time. In a male dominated environment, they put me forward and sponsored my development.
- What’s your best way to find inspiration when you’re feeling stuck or unmotivated?
Take some time away from the problem or issue, mentally and physically. I find you only need a short time to be able to gain a new perspective.
- What’s your favourite souvenir or memento from a memorable trip?
I’m not a big collector of stuff but in my office at home I do surround myself with mementos from past roles. One recent addition is a segment of the roof frame from our latest LNG tank build at the Isle of Grain regasification terminal. This was part of my remit when I ran National Grid Ventures and I’m proud of the large-scale engineering work that we do to help energy security. That asset alone can supply 25% of the UK’s gas needs in winter and was vital in the recent energy crisis.
Cordi’s book recommendations:
I’m very interested in people and learning from how others make decisions and choices and find motivation, so I’m a big fan of Steven Bartlett and really enjoy The Diary of a CEO. So much learning and inspiration to be found here!
My current book is Much More to Come by Eleanor Mills – I’m excited by her work to bring greater meaning and joy to midlife and bringing positive identity to women over 50.