Today, we discuss credit risk and stress testing in volatile and uncertain times. What is the function of credit risk within the commodities sector? How crucial is it? What does good look like - how best to organise, lead and deliver it? And what do we mean by stress testing? And how can organisations make themselves more robust for the future?
Speaking to our host Paul Chapman on this episode is Jan-Peter Onstwedder. Jan-Peter has been head of commodity risk groups for global banks as well as for trading organisations, and is now an Enco Insight Partner. As an Enco Insight partner, JP is providing independent, peer-to-peer advice to leaders within organisations that are developing or strengthening their risk and trading functions.
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Key Talent Takeaways
Risk Talent Has Become Strategic Talent
Where risk once operated in the background, today’s volatile commodities environment has elevated risk professionals into strategic decision-makers. Talent that combines deep credit understanding with commercial awareness is now essential to business continuity and competitive advantage. Organisations are investing more in attracting and retaining such individuals.
Talent that Thinks Beyond the Model is Invaluable
Stress testing and scenario planning are no longer optional. The most valuable credit professionals today are those who can anticipate ‘what if’ risks, challenge assumptions, and develop mitigation strategies. Talent with a mix of risk judgement, macro-awareness, and strategic foresight is in high demand — particularly in firms exposed to long-term and asset-backed contracts.
Sector-Specific Experience is Critical
Standard credit training doesn’t fully prepare professionals for commodities. The sector demands specialists who understand opaque counterparties, fast-changing market dynamics, and complex physical transactions. As a result, there’s strong demand — and often a talent shortage — for professionals with prior commodities or energy trading experience.
High-Performing Risk Teams Enable Business, Not Just Control It
Credit and counterparty professionals must build constructive partnerships with commercial teams. This requires not only technical skills but also strong interpersonal ability, trust-building, and a solutions mindset. Employers increasingly value risk leaders who can navigate internal dynamics, support growth, and avoid adversarial relationships with the front office.
Global Organisations Require Local Expertise
As legal, political, and credit norms vary by region, there’s a rising demand for regional credit risk professionals who understand local law, enforcement practices, and contract structures. Successful firms are building distributed teams with legal fluency and regional specialisation to ensure robustness across global portfolios.
HC Group is a global search firm dedicated to the energy and commodities markets.
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