Q&A with Conor Stone, Product Specialist

Conor Stone is a Product Specialist, responsible for demonstrating the value proposition of Vortexa's energy intelligence to prospective clients through tailored presentations and bespoke trials, as well as driving customer success.

Prior to Vortexa, Conor worked as a Marine Transport Advisor with McQuilling Partners, working closely with major chartering and shipowning entities.  

Fun fact: Conor is an avid traveller and has visited over 25 different countries and counting!

We wanted to find out what inspired Conor to join Vortexa, what some of his biggest milestones have been to date and what day-to-day life really looks like for a Product Specialist...

What inspired you to join Vortexa?

First and foremost, the incredible opportunity to solve some of the energy industry's most complex issues. After some time in the industry, it became apparent to me that there was a significant information gap when it came to tracking seaborne trade - and an opportunity to leverage big data and the power of machine learning technology to fill that gap. To be a part of that solution was an opportunity I could not pass up. 

''...We have such a diverse group of people, but we all share the same desire to achieve more as a company, which fosters an empowering environment to work in.''

What would you say is the most interesting aspect of your role?

That's an easy one, interacting with our clients on a daily basis. I get to sit on the front lines and really understand, first hand, what they need to be successful and how we, as a technology company, can shape our offering to better support their objectives.

What have been some significant milestone moments for you at Vortexa?

I have had the great privilege of becoming a part of a groundbreaking team in the United States and forming the beginning of Vortexa operations in the Americas region. I consider every client that we welcome into the Vortexa community a great achievement and expect many more milestones to come as we continue to grow our footprint. 

What does day-to-day life look like for you as a Product Specialist?

Every day is different, especially in such an evolving energy market, which really keeps you on your toes. Typically I begin the day reading the relevant news headlines and great insights our analyst team draw from our data. Most of my time is spent interfacing with our clients to inform them of the latest and greatest Vortexa has to offer, but more importantly, acting as the voice of clients within Vortexa and making sure their needs are guiding the direction of our product development. 

''... I get to sit on the front lines and really understand, first hand, what clients need to be successful and how we, as a technology company, can shape our offering to better support their objectives. ''

What key qualities make a Product Specialist successful?

I would say communication and interpersonal skills are the most important as well as an understanding of the energy markets. As a Product Specialist, you need to know what you are talking about to communicate it effectively. Whilst communication is key, you also must be able to listen to the needs of others, as this allows you to adapt quickly to each situation. Every day brings new surprises and challenges, but that's what makes it so fun!

How would you describe the culture at Vortexa?

With a quote from the great Henry Ford "If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself." Everyone at Vortexa supports each other with the common goal of moving forward as a team, regardless of any differences we may have. We have such a diverse group of people, but we all share the same desire to achieve more as a company, which fosters an empowering environment to work in. 

What advice would you give people hoping to join Vortexa?

Be prepared to be versatile in such a fast-growing company.

Describe your working life at Vortexa in three words?

Exciting, challenging and rewarding.