Power to the people…who’s who at Next Business Energy.
Tri Cao
What sparked your interest in energy?
My interest in energy stems from the financial markets. For any party involved in the industry whether it’s the customer, retailer or generator there is a lot of risk involved when it comes to managing your cost. So, managing that risk and volatility in the energy market is definitely what has drawn me into the industry.
What do you love most about working at Next Business Energy?
The people and the culture. With any work place there will be positives and negatives but being able to come to work and enjoy the company of the people you work with makes every challenge a little bit easier to overcome.
How has next business energy evolved during your time here?
In the two and half years I’ve been with Next Business Energy, the company has grown dramatically. Not just in terms of the number of people, but in terms of how we operate. I think it is a testament to everyone who works, and has worked at NBE, that we were able to top the Australia Financial Reviews Fast 100 list.
What motivates you?
My greatest motivation is to continue to grow and develop as a person, not just at work but in life generally. I love to continue learning every day and fear the day I become stagnate in my life and in my job.
What’s your favourite part of your job?
Being challenged every day. Working for a smaller retailer has allowed me to become involved in many facets of the business which allows me to get a better understanding of the business as a whole.
How do you define exceptional customer service?
Listening to what the customer wants and needs. Different customers will have certain expectations and they are not necessarily the same from one customer to the next.
What are some of the most surprising lessons you’ve learnt in your career?
No matter how prepared you are, things can and will change within a moment’s notice and you need to equip yourself to handle these pressure situations.
What do you think is the next big thing in the energy industry?
Greater uptake of solar storage. We are already seeing this happen today, but batteries are still in the early adopter stage.
Who do you look up to for inspiration and why?
I can’t say there is one person I consider my inspiration or mentor. I believe there is something to learn from everybody that you meet.
What advice would you give to someone starting in the energy industry?
The energy industry is a lot more complex than many people give it credit for. Be prepared to deal with constantly changing regulations and industry standards.
What do you think the biggest challenge facing the Australian Energy Industry will be in the next 5 years?
Managing carbon emissions while keeping energy bills low for the end user. We are already seeing a lot of debate on this issue and its one of the governments biggest challenges today.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Never stop learning.
If you had one super power, what would it be?
Hard to go past Superman!
Watch Tri’s interview here.