“The support provided to young professionals within the Agency and the emphasis placed on their professional growth are the primary factors that motivate me in my work.”
This edition of the Career Blog features Fidan Hasanova, the youngest employee of the Azerbaijan Energy Regulatory Agency (AERA). She currently serves as a Specialist in the Department of Energy Sector Liberalization and Investment Attraction. Fidan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and a Master’s degree in Project Management from the MBA program taught at the Baku Higher Oil School jointly with the University of Business Innovation and Sustainability (UBIS), Switzerland. Additionally, she is pursuing a second Master’s degree in Risk, Crisis, and Disaster Management by distance learning at the University of Leicester, the United Kingdom.
Fidan joined AERA in 2023 as an Assistant Specialist, and currently holds the position of Specialist.
How would you describe your role at AERA?
As per the regulations of my department, my primary responsibilities at the Agency include drafting proposals for incentive mechanisms aimed at enhancing the investment climate, diversifying production, and attracting investments, taking into account the relevant legislative acts, development concepts, targeted programs and international best practices. I also participate in executing measures aimed at liberalizing the energy market, along with implementation of other initiatives.
Given the rapid development of technologies and emergence of new international approaches, regular self-development is an integral part of my daily routine. This helps me keep up with the latest trends in our field.
What aspects of your job do you enjoy the most?
One of the most thrilling aspects of my job is the strong teamwork prevailing at the Agency. This unity fosters personnel development and positive interpersonal relationships among our employees.
Due to the advent of new technologies, the energy sector now offers a dynamic environment with constantly changing standards. Working in this environment enables me to closely monitor industry innovations and explore their integration into our operational processes. Meanwhile, cooperation and knowledge-sharing with leading international institutions enable me to explore the development prospects within my field and to participate in projects that contribute to shaping a healthy competitive energy market against the backdrop of energy sector reforms in our country.
What skills are essential for someone aspiring to pursue a career in your field?
Considering the rapidly evolving technologies associated with energy transition, individuals aspiring to work in this field should have an interest in exploring the advanced expertise in utilization of liberalization principles and efficient organization of market dynamics. Furthermore, they need to demonstrate analytical thinking capabilities and technological knowledge to effectively assess investment environment dynamics and associated risks. Additionally, proficiency in applying innovative solutions and foreign language fluency can greatly benefit those eyeing to build a career within this field.
What motivates you to excel in your work?
The support provided to young professionals within the Agency and the emphasis placed on their professional growth are the primary factors that motivate me in my work.
This enables each specialist to realize their full potential and plays a crucial role in accumulating invaluable experience.
The chance to contribute, even in a small capacity, to the initiatives within our country’s energy sector reforms serves as a driving force for me to approach my work with due diligence and execute my tasks to the best of my abilities.
Working in the dynamic and constantly developing energy sector gives me wide opportunities to adapt to innovations, gain new knowledge, and enhance my professional skills. This drives my enthusiasm for the work and inspires me towards greater achievements.
