Switching on Electrified Skills

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Latest episode

Jan 2026

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About the show

Join Deepak Farmah on an electrifying journey, connecting you with industry leaders, educators, and pioneers shaping the electric revolution. Explore skills, jobs, and community, gaining actionable insights and inspiring stories. Whether you're an employer seeking talent or an individual advancing your career, this podcast is your ultimate guide. Dive into electrification through engaging conversations, uncovering pathways to seize opportunities. Experience our audio adventure, partake in the upskilling revolution, and discover current electrification courses and jobs at www.ershub.co.uk.

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20 recent

January 16, 202635 min

One Organisation, One Direction: Marketing Matters | Mazin Al Raisi & Benny Tjahjono

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Mazin Al Raisi, the first CMO in Oman’s banking sector, Marketing Person of the Year 2023, and a recent DBA graduate from Coventry University, who applied his doctoral research in real time while leading at the highest level.Mazin shares his DBA journey, why he chose a DBA over a traditional PhD, and how combining academic rigor with industry practice shaped his leadership. He challenges a deeply rooted misconception: reinforcing that marketing is not only a support function, it is a strategic force.Drawing from the banking sector, Mazin explains why marketing must be centralised, aligned, and unified, one organisation, one message. He also tackles a critical question across all industries: why is marketing often downsized during stabilisation, when it should be driving growth and resilience?This episode is a powerful call to rethink the value of marketing and place it where it belongs: at the strategy table.Experience our electrifying audio adventure and be part of the upskilling revolution, paving the way for an electricity-powered future. Learn about the current courses and jobs available in electrification at www.ershub.co.uk

December 17, 202539 min

Turning Homes into Powerhouses | Andrew Clint

In this episode, myenergi CEO Andrew Clint shares how his career journey, which began in architecture and finance at Dell and later moved into global business leadership at De La Rue, led him to the forefront of electrification. He discusses how myenergi is evolving from individual devices to a fully connected Home Energy Management System (HEMS), helping households save money, reduce reliance on the grid, and make the most of smart tariffs and renewable power. We explore customer value beyond the EV: saving - and even earning - through flexibility services, and how connected devices can support fuel-poverty initiatives and social housing pilots. Andrew also reflects on why myenergi continues to build in the UK, the role of partnerships, and the importance of resilience across supply chains. Whether you’re exploring careers in electrification, developing connected-home technologies, or looking to make energy smarter for everyone, this episode highlights the power of transferable skills, collaboration, and innovation. Learn more about Andrew Clint on LinkedIn. Experience our electrifying audio adventure and be part of the upskilling revolution, paving the way for an electricity-powered future. Learn about the current courses and jobs available in electrification at www.ershub.co.uk

December 1, 202551 min

The New Battery Afterlife | Tony Booth & Will Grocott

In this episode, Tony Booth, CEO, and Will Grocott, Chief Programme Officer at GreenTech Industries, share how they are turning sustainability from concept into practice. Drawing on decades of experience across the automotive and clean energy sectors, Tony and Will discuss how innovation, engineering, and circular-economy thinking are reshaping how we design, reuse, and recycle battery systems. They explore the journey from large-scale manufacturing to remanufacturing, and the growing importance of retaining material value to build a truly sustainable supply chain. The conversation uncovers the real meaning of sustainability in practice - from people and purpose to product and process - and highlights why collaboration, innovation and resilience are essential to the UK’s green transition. They also discuss the skills and mindset needed to drive change, offering advice for professionals and businesses looking to be part of this fast-evolving industry. Whether you're an engineer, entrepreneur, or student curious about the future of sustainable manufacturing, this episode shines a light on the people pioneering circular solutions and rethinking what it means to build for good. Learn more about Tony Booth and Will Grocott on LinkedIn. Experience our electrifying audio adventure and be part of the upskilling revolution that paves the way for an electricity-powered future. Learn about the current courses and jobs available in electrification at www.ershub.co.uk

May 14, 2025Episode 1639 min

Skills That Matter Beyond the Classroom | John Yarham

Join us for an inspiring conversation in London with John Yarham, CEO of The Careers & Enterprise Company, as we explore the future of career education for young people in the UK. John shares insights on how the education system is adapting to better support students in finding the right career path. We discuss the challenges young people face, the growing importance of creativity and adaptability, and how work experience and apprenticeships are evolving to meet the needs of a changing world. John explains why “essential skills” versus “soft skills” – such as problem-solving, literacy, numeracy and resilience – are increasingly vital for success. These foundational abilities enable young people to thrive in the workplace and adapt to shifting demands. We examine the role of collaboration among schools, employers and parents in preparing the next generation for the world of work. From the influence of role models to emerging careers in electrification and sustainability, this episode highlights both the opportunities and the support needed to help all young people succeed. Whether you're a student, parent, teacher or employer, you'll gain practical ideas and inspiration to help young people reach their potential in a fast-moving job market. Learn more about John Yarham on LinkedIn. Experience our electrifying audio adventure and be part of the upskilling revolution, paving the way for an electricity-powered future. Learn about the current courses and jobs available in electrification at www.ershub.co.uk

April 29, 2025Episode 1544 min

Why Your Non-Tech Skills Matter in Green Energy | Doug Cook

In this episode, filmed in London, Doug Cook, Director of Strategy and Flexibility at Ohme, shares his career journey and offers valuable insights into the future of electrification. From studying economics to shaping strategy at one of the UK’s most innovative energy companies, Doug’s path highlights the diverse and often unexpected routes into the green technology sector. He discusses how the industry is evolving and what that means for those looking to build a career in it. We explore the key challenges and opportunities in electrification, covering everything from government policy to cutting-edge tech. Doug unpacks the future of EV charging, the economics of clean transport and why accessibility is essential to driving a greener transition. Doug shares advice for recruiters on how to better connect with talent from a range of backgrounds, and highlights the creative, people-focused nature of many roles in the energy transition especially those working at the intersection of policy, operations and innovation. Whether you're a student, a career-changer, or simply curious about the future of energy, this episode offers a compelling look at a sector that's redefining how we live and work. Doug’s perspective highlights the importance of innovation, adaptability and collaboration in tackling climate change. Learn more about Doug Cook on LinkedIn. Experience our electrifying audio adventure and be part of the upskilling revolution, paving the way for an electricity-powered future. Learn about the current courses and jobs available in electrification at www.ershub.co.uk

March 31, 2025Episode 1446 min

How Renault Group is Shaping Tomorrow’s Mobility | Patrick Benammar & Oliver Cantzler

In this engaging podcast episode, Patrick Benammar, Vice President, Learning and Development, and Oliver Cantzler, Head of Technologies & Design Academy at Renault Group discuss the company's transformative journey into electric mobility. They explore Renault’s strategic “Renaulution” plan, which focuses on electrification and future mobility solutions. The conversation delves into the challenges of transitioning from traditional combustion engines to electric vehicles, highlighting the importance of skills development, adaptability and continuous learning. Patrick and Oliver share insights into Renault’s innovative training approach, emphasising a learn-by-practice model and the value of curiosity in an evolving industry. They highlight the role of ReKnow University in equipping employees and future generations with the skills needed to navigate these transformations. They also examine the global skills landscape, the role of AI in automotive innovation, and the critical collaboration between industry and academia. Looking ahead, they stress the need for the next generation to take an active role in shaping the future of mobility, recognising skills development as a shared responsibility that will drive technological and societal progress in the automotive sector. You can learn more about Patrick Benammar and Oliver Cantzler through LinkedIn. Experience our electrifying audio adventure and be part of the upskilling revolution, paving the way for an electricity-powered future. Learn about the current courses and jobs available in electrification at www.ershub.co.uk

January 9, 2025Episode 1348 min

Lessons in Persistence, Determination and Resilience | Nile and Blair Henry

In this episode, Nile Henry, CEO of the Blair Project, and his brother Blair Henry, Operational Manager, share their inspiring journey of founding an organisation dedicated to making motorsports and STEM fields more accessible and diverse. At the core of their message is the importance of developing an "unstoppable mindset" built on persistence, determination and resilience. The brothers discuss how they overcame financial barriers and self-doubt, and how embracing failure and taking risks can fuel personal and professional growth. Their insights go beyond their own experiences, offering valuable advice for anyone facing challenges. They highlight the significance of support networks, learning from setbacks and maintaining focus on your goals. Their journey serves as a powerful reminder to stay determined and keep pushing forward. Tune in to hear how developing the right mindset and leveraging your resources can help you achieve your ambitions, no matter how big they seem. You can learn more about Nile Henry and Blair Henry through LinkedIn. Experience our electrifying audio adventure and be part of the upskilling revolution, paving the way for an electricity-powered future. Learn about the current courses and jobs available in electrification at www.ershub.co.uk

December 18, 2024Episode 1241 min

AI, Innovation and the Future of Skills | Debbie Johnson

In this conversation, Debbie Johnson, Head of Talent and Skills at Innovate UK, shares her career journey and vision for the future of skills development. From retail to construction, she highlights the importance of embracing unexpected opportunities and keeping an open mind. Debbie advocates for simplifying access to career opportunities and creating a collaborative environment, encouraging persistence with her message: "never let anyone tell you no." She discusses the role of digital technologies, particularly AI, in enhancing productivity and driving innovation, while emphasising the need for intelligent use of technology. Focused on transferable skills, adaptability and lifelong learning, Debbie’s vision empowers individuals to navigate dynamic careers with the support of transformative technologies. You can learn more about Debbie Johnson through LinkedIn. Experience our electrifying audio adventure and be part of the upskilling revolution, paving the way for an electricity-powered future. Learn about the current courses and jobs available in electrification at www.ershub.co.uk

August 13, 2024Episode 950 min

Empowering the future of electrification with Paul Noon and James Widmer

In this episode, we explore electric vehicle innovation and skills development with Professor Paul Noon OBE, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Coventry University, and James Widmer, CEO of Advanced Electric Machines. Our guests discuss the Electric Revolution Skills Hub (ERS Hub) and its role in meeting the growing demand for expertise in electrification. In this engaging conversation, Paul Noon shares how the future economy relies on unlocking and equipping our people's knowledge to drive innovation and create new technologies. Our host Deepak chats with James Widmer about the need to reskill not just young people, but also experienced internal combustion engine workers to adapt to new roles in the electric vehicle industry. They share more about the challenges in bridging the skills gap, the importance of academia-industry collaboration, and innovative approaches to education and training. The conversation highlights the ERS Hub's unique, sustainable model for skills development, its impact on the UK economy, and its potential to shape the future of green technology. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the transformative power of targeted skills initiatives and the emerging opportunities in the electric revolution. Tune in to this episode to gain insights into the latest developments in electric vehicle skills training. Discover how the Electric Revolution Skills Hub is enhancing its offerings, expanding training programs, and broadening its scope to include cutting-edge technologies.

June 6, 2024Episode 1040 min

Supporting Career Learning and Collaboration with Claire Murphy

In this informative podcast episode, Claire Murphy from InnoEnergy Skills Institute shares her extensive experience scaling online learning programmes and envisions collaborative frameworks for skills development. Leveraging her background in education and the implementation of digital learning initiatives in the United States, Claire provides invaluable perspectives into the evolving landscape of career development and lifelong learning. Throughout our conversation, Claire highlights the significance of emerging trends in personalised learning, continuous professional development, and practical strategies for talent retention within the energy sector. Exploring the intricacies of career progression opportunities, she offers guidance on how individuals can navigate their professional journeys while staying up to date on industry advancements. Deepak and Claire discuss the transformative potential of collaboration between industry, education, and government to address skills needs and create accessible career pathways. They explore how collaborative efforts, utilising collective expertise, can positively impact lives through skills training and interventions, ultimately encouraging a more inclusive and resilient workforce. Tune in to gain valuable insights into how collaboration between education, industry, and government can drive meaningful change in the energy sector.