Perspectives

Coffee with Kai: how to keep moving

Commercial lead & data analyst Kai gives us a peek behind the office doors…

In this edition, Kai looks at how a mix of work and physical activities are helping him develop new skills as he navigates his way through a new role.

Kai Henderson originally started as our digital marketer and has since moved through a junior risk consultant role to become commercial lead & data analyst. Alongside his work at Marex, he is studying for a graduate apprenticeship in data science – and developing his taste for caffeine.

Since the last coffee with Kai at the tail end of 2023, a lot has happened.

So the big news is that in February, I changed job role to commercial lead & data analyst.

The commercial side has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of how the business is run, looking at the financials, the business and marketing strategy, and also building my network of relationships with existing and new potential clients.

There are real opportunities to flex Marex’s expertise as we diversify our client base during the energy transition. But for that, we all need to keep making the right connections and that needs focus and attention. I know we have the right skillset to address a whole host of challenges and we can’t wait for clients in new sectors to come knocking on our door if they don’t know what we do (and how well we do it!).

On the data side, I’ve been able to take my knowledge from the first two years of university, including:

data mining using the coding language R: this involves using specific R techniques to predict outcomes with data modelling and model tuning
programming object-oriented models and design concepts using algorithms and data structures with the coding language Python
developing relational database models, stored procedures, functions and triggers to solve business problems using SQL

During the summer break of university, I have taken the time to develop my knowledge by taking part in machine learning courses and programmes.

With the skills I have learned I am now at a stage where I can help our clients understand their data more effectively through visualisations, machine learning, predictive analysis and operational efficiency. If we can help businesses understand their data better, they can:

increase their operational efficiency with predictive maintenance and process optimisation
improve decision-making through better resource allocation and performance monitoring
optimise cost management with financial analytics and budget forecasting
strengthen safety and compliance with incident analysis and regulatory compliance

Own goals

On a more personal note, since we last spoke I found my passion for football has slowly died due to recurring injuries to my hamstring, pulling it three times before tearing it.

But a new-found interest in running has been surprisingly good in helping my mental focus and discipline. I’ve found it really motivating.

Initially, I didn’t expect to enjoy running as much as I do but I’ve found it really motivating. Going out for slower runs is especially good for my mental clarity, allowing me to clear my mind. It acts as a reset button, reducing stress and anxiety and I enjoy the growth of a stronger mindset and the feeling of the “runner’s high” once you’ve finished.

Anyone who is thinking of getting into running or doesn’t enjoy it, I’d advise you to start by running slowly and keeping your heart rate low. Shift your focus away from your time and focus on improving the distance.

I still have a focus for the gym which now complements my running. My weeks are structured as this is how I perform best however the good thing about coming away from football is my weeks can be flexible if I need them to be.

So far, I’ve completed two half marathons - knocking six minutes off my first race for a time of 1 hour 43 minutes.

Next up is obviously a full marathon, and so I’ve signed up to the Loch Ness marathon at the end of September. Apparently, it is a hilly route which I have now realised with it being in Inverness. You would’ve thought being a data analyst I would perhaps have analysed the course, but no.

Maybe I’ll need my new caffeine kick – coffee with Kai now involves a drink called Tenzing. It is apparently natural energy from natural caffeine with a bit of pink Himalayan salt for electrolytes. I always get a massive crash from other energy drinks but I am liking Tenzing.

Keep the focus

Natural caffeine aside, at the start of every week, I create a structured plan that outlines all my work, running sessions, and gym workouts.

This approach helps me stay motivated by breaking down my goals into manageable tasks, ensuring I complete every session and piece of work required.

By sticking to this structure, I build discipline and stay on track, especially with my marathon training. I highly recommend adopting a similar system — it’s a powerful way to stay focused and make consistent progress toward your goals.

What helps you stay motivated?

Perspectives