There’s no single route into the renewables industry. Our Route to Renewables series highlights the varied career paths within the sector, showing how skills from across STEM and beyond contribute to the delivery of clean energy.
In this instalment, we speak to Obinna Okeke, Contract Manager, about his journey into renewables and how procurement supports renewable energy projects in practice.
What did you want to do when you were younger?
Throughout my teenage years, I aspired to several different careers. I initially wanted to be a soldier, then a pharmacist, but after attending a careers advice event, I settled on becoming a lawyer.
What route did you take to get to your current role?
Over the last 20 years, I’ve held a variety of roles, including commercial lawyer, solicitor, company secretary and university lecturer. As a lecturer, I taught Energy Law, which sparked a strong interest in renewable energy.
When I decided to move into the renewables sector, I initially applied for a project management role and gained my certification. From there, I transitioned into contract management, where I now support renewable energy projects in practice.
What was it about the renewables industry that made you want to change sector?
I developed a passion for renewable energy during my time as a lecturer. Through my research and by following current affairs, I came to appreciate the important role renewables can play in strengthening the UK’s energy security and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.
I was drawn to the opportunity to be part of a sector that uses innovative technologies to harness natural resources and generate clean, reliable energy. The wider purpose of contributing to a more secure and sustainable energy system was what ultimately motivated me to make the move.
Which skills do you use most often that people might not expect?
Common sense and a good eye for detail. Having an awareness of current affairs and keeping up with the news really helps develop these skills, which are extremely valuable in a contract management role.
How does your role support the delivery of renewable energy projects in practice?
My role supports renewable energy projects at every stage, from early planning through to delivery. Before contracts are signed, I help draft and negotiate agreements, assess costs, identify risks and make sure everything complies with legislation and company policies. This helps set projects up for success from the outset.
After contracts are in place, I provide ongoing support through contract and cost management, risk and change management, stakeholder engagement, and resolving any issues that arise. Put simply, my role is about making sure projects deliver value for money while managing risk, so renewable energy developments can progress smoothly and efficiently.
If someone wanted to follow a similar path, what’s one practical step they could take right now?
Develop an interest in the global renewable energy industry. I find BBC Bitesize a great, accessible place to start. Keeping up to date with news on clean energy, construction, and electricity generation and transmission is also really valuable – the more you read, the more you’ll pick up.
Even watching detective dramas, crime thrillers and negotiation focused films can help develop useful skills for roles involving contracts and problem-solving.
What excites you most about the future of renewables?
I’m excited by the renewables industry’s role in decarbonising Britain’s heavy industries and electricity generation, and in helping Scotland progress towards its net zero emissions target of 2045.
According to RenewableUK, renewable technologies generated over half of the UK’s electricity in 2024. This milestone shows clear progress away from fossil fuels and towards a cleaner energy system.