Breaking Barriers: A Conversation with Emily Wood
In celebration of International Women’s Day, we’re spending the next week shining a spotlight on some of the incredible women at UGP driving innovation in the energy sector as well as helping shape the future of our business. Yesterday, we had the pleasure of speaking with Emily Wood, Sales Coordination Team Leader at UGP. Her story spans a journey from law school to leading a growing team in a traditionally male-dominated field. Along the way, she has learned the power of self-belief, mentorship, and continuous learning. Read on to discover how she’s making her mark at UGP and why she’s passionate about paving the way for more women in energy.
“My role at UGP is Sales Coordination Team Leader for the Direct Sales team. I oversee a team of Sales Coordinators, ensuring tasks are completed on time and to a high standard.”
Emily’s responsibilities include everything from contract quality checks to assisting Account Managers with queries and pricing requests. She’s laser-focused on accuracy and ensuring smooth daily operational processes. This attention to detail is the cornerstone of her success and a reflection of her dedication to helping the wider team and business.
Her goal is simple yet essential: “keep the wheels turning behind the scenes so that UGP can operate at its best and deliver top-notch service to clients.”
The Path to Energy: A Love for Niche Knowledge
“What inspired me to pursue a career in energy was that I liked how niche the knowledge is. I love learning new things, and in energy, you learn something new every day!”
Surprisingly, Emily had a background in law before joining UGP. She discovered a passion for niche areas in her studies (like Tax Law) and saw parallels in the highly specialised energy sector. The prospect of continuously learning and uncovering new challenges every day compelled her to take the leap.
“It’s not just about knowledge for knowledge’s sake; it’s about pursuing fields where you can keep evolving and remain intellectually curious.”
Growing into Leadership
“I started as a Sales Coordinator when the team was just two people. As the business grew, so did our team, and in March last year, I was promoted to Senior Sales Coordinator. Then, last August, I became Team Leader.”
Her leadership journey at UGP is a testament to working hard, seizing opportunities, and never underestimating the power of consistent performance. Now leading others, she focuses on motivating her team and streamlining processes to keep everything running smoothly.
“Career advancement isn’t always a straight line—sometimes it’s about being ready to take on new challenges as soon as they appear.”
What She Loves About Energy
“The opportunities for growth and progression, and the chance to learn new things every day. I have worked at UGP for over three years, and I still have so much more to learn.”
Emily relishes the chance to partner with different departments, exchange ideas, and brainstorm innovative solutions. She thrives on problem-solving and believes that each new hurdle is an invitation to improve systems and processes.
“A passion for continuous learning is the secret sauce to enjoying the dynamic nature of the energy sector.”
Challenges as a Woman in Energy
“Working at UGP, I would say I haven’t faced any challenges as a woman in the energy industry.”
While she hasn’t personally encountered barriers at UGP, Emily recognises that women in the broader energy sector do face hurdles. She credits supportive networks—like the Women in Utilities network—for fostering inclusion and professional growth, as well working for a company that recognises and supports the role of women.
“Not every woman’s experience in a male-dominated field is the same, but active networks and supportive colleagues can make a positive difference.”
Why Diversity Matters
“Having more women in energy is important for young women who want to pursue careers in this field. Representation matters, and seeing other women thrive shows them they can do it too.”
Emily believes that a diverse workforce fosters better decision-making and stimulates unique problem-solving approaches. Different perspectives create holistic solutions, which is exactly what the energy sector needs.
“Diversity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a fundamental driver of creativity, resilience, and success.”
Advice for Aspiring Women in Energy
“Be confident and believe in yourself. Connect with women in the energy sector on LinkedIn—don’t be afraid to challenge.”
Mentorship is another cornerstone of Emily’s career growth, recognising the support of women from both within UGP and externally in helping to boost her confidence and supporting her through doubts.
“Seek out role models and allies who’ll push you to keep learning, growing, and believing in your abilities.”
Personal & Professional Growth in Energy
“Working in energy has changed me personally; it has made me believe in myself more and boosted my confidence. Professionally, it has developed my problem-solving and analytical skills, and given me the opportunity to take on my first managerial role.
When you work for a company that values continuous improvement, you grow as both a professional and an individual.”
Hopes for the Future
“I would like to see more women employed in energy. It’s still male-dominated, but over the last couple of years we’ve seen real improvements. I’d love to see that balance become 50:50 in the next five years.”
Equal representation fuels innovation and fair opportunity, and Emily is optimistic that the industry is headed in the right direction.
We all have a part to play—through hiring practices, mentorship programs, and inclusive policies—in making that 50:50 dream a reality.
A Final Message
“If you have the right drive and mindset, you can do it. Don’t let ‘imposter syndrome’ or the fact that traditionally males did this job stop you from reaching your goals.”
Emily’s story at UGP proves that determination and hard work pay off.
“Breaking into new territory is never easy, but with belief in yourself and a solid support system, you can conquer any challenge.”
This International Women’s Day, we celebrate women like Emily who continually push boundaries and redefine what’s possible in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Here’s to learning something new every day, believing in our potential, and inspiring the next generation of women to power up their careers in energy.
Author’s Note: A huge thanks to Emily for sharing her insights, and to all the women at UGP—and beyond—who are shaping the future of the energy sector. Keep breaking barriers and proving that with the right drive, any goal is within reach.
