Sebastián Villaveces joined Convergent in 2021 and brings over a decade of experience to his role as SVP and Deputy General Counsel. He joined the energy sector to have a positive, tangible impact on the future of energy. When Sebastián is not using his legal expertise to advance the energy sector or bringing key contracts across the finish line, he serves on Convergent’s Engagement Committee and helps colleagues translate “legalese.”
Get to know Sebastián, what he wished more people knew about energy storage, what advice he would give his younger self, and much more in the latest installment of our staff spotlight series: “Behind the Batteries.”
What made you decide to work in the energy industry?
The pursuit for professional fulfillment led me to an industry in which the impact of my work, and the impact of the organization I work for, is tangible, meaningful and important. My interest in the sector has intensified along with the intensity of the climate crisis and the undeniable role humans play in it, both negative and positive; it is my firm belief that we (humans) hold the keys to our destiny. Often, people associate the “energy industry” with old and aging infrastructure, not realizing that the industry has been dramatically evolving into a futuristic space that is propelled by scientific breakthroughs, new technology, and digital transformation.
What drew you to Convergent Energy + Power?
What drew me to Convergent was the opportunity to use my time, skills, and experience to develop solutions for our customers that positively impact communities and our planet. I am thrilled to work for an organization that has its eyes on a sustainable future. When I think of my work at Convergent, I think of my generation’s legacy.
Sebastián (left) educates Convergent team members on the legal requirements necessary to make a project possible.
People may not know what a Deputy General Counsel does. What are your key responsibilities at Convergent?
As Deputy General Counsel, I spend my time supporting each of our business functions with strategic legal advice to help them achieve their goals of sustainable growth while assessing and managing risk. There is variability when it comes to how I spend my time. One day I could be working on real estate matters, another day on procurement topics, while some days are filled with a variety of questions covering commercial negotiations, corporate governance, and the implementation of corporate policies. Just to name a few! I also collaborate closely with our General Counsel to manage our team of lawyers and legal operations specialists.
What is your favorite part of your role?
My favorite part of my role at Convergent is being a problem-solver, a multitasking ninja, and an active participant in all aspects of our business.
How do you like to spend time outside of the office?
I like to spend time with my family, preferably outside (no matter what season). Our sons, Max (three) and Simon (one) keep us busy, entertained and smiling. I also enjoy live music, and a game—or ten—of pool.
Sebastián and his family learning how to tap maple trees at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Forget the title, let yourself be challenged by the work you do, be curious, learn and push the boundaries of your own perceived skills.
What’s one thing you wish more people understood about energy storage?
I wish people understood how many use cases there are for battery storage and how each of those uses plays a critical role in the clean energy transition and future of clean energy. Energy storage is the linchpin of the clean energy transition. Today, when we talk about energy storage we are often talking about battery storage, which is the predominant technology available today. Without the ability to store electrons, energy must be produced and consumed at the same time. Energy storage allows us to store energy when it is not needed for times when it is needed most. This is especially important when it comes to intermittent sources of energy, namely solar and wind. Energy storage is critical to the future of energy. If we are talking about energy, we should be talking about energy storage.
Is Energy Storage Right for You?
If you’re interested in learning more about how energy storage can benefit your business or community, please contact us today.
Sebastián serves as Convergent’s Deputy General Counsel. Sebastián is committed to advancing the clean energy transition and brings over a decade of experience as a transactional lawyer in which he advised on projects and transactions in 15 jurisdictions throughout the Americas. Sebastián holds a Juris Doctorate equivalent degree from Universidad de los Andes in Colombia, a Masters of Laws from Northwestern Pritzker School of Law, and a Certificate in Business Administration from Northwestern Kellogg School of Management.
