For anyone building a career in the energy sector, this conversation matters because it touches on something many of us are experiencing right now uncertainty. Whether you’re early in your career, trying to transition roles, or deciding which direction to take, the decisions being made at policy level are directly shaping job opportunities, salaries, and long term stability.

In this episode, I speak with Douglas Lumsden, who moved from a 25 year career in oil and gas into politics. We talk about what’s really happening in the UK energy landscape, why opportunities feel more limited, and what this means for people working in or entering the sector.

💡 What I took from this conversation

🔹 The energy sector is still essential but it’s changing unevenly

We are not using less oil and gas yet, but we are producing less of it domestically. That gap is being filled by imports, which has implications for jobs, costs, and energy security.

🔹 Transition isn’t matching reality on the ground

There’s a lot of focus on moving toward renewables, but the number of jobs available doesn’t yet match the roles being lost in oil and gas. That mismatch is creating pressure across the workforce.

🔹 Policy decisions are shaping career paths

Investment, hiring, and long term planning are heavily influenced by government policy. That means career stability in the sector is no longer just about technical skill it’s also about external factors outside our control.

✅ Actionable takeaways

🔸 Think in terms of “energy,” not just oil and gas

If you’re planning your career, focus on skills that transfer across the wider energy sector engineering, project delivery, subsea, digital, and controls all move across industries.

🔸 Stay flexible on location and opportunity

Many professionals are moving internationally to maintain their careers. It’s worth considering mobility as part of your long term plan rather than a last resort.

🔸 Build skills that bridge sectors

Look for experience that sits between oil & gas and renewables (e.g. offshore engineering, commissioning, infrastructure). These areas are more resilient as the industry evolves.