Based in Zurich but supporting clients across four continents, Ralf Harmens, Principal Consultant at capSpire, delivers strategic consulting in software and process solutions with a global finesse—leveraging people’s strengths, applying best practices, and drawing on the expertise of a highly skilled team of international C/ETRM professionals. With over fifteen years of experience in the global ETRM space, Ralf combines creativity and governance to drive efficiency and create lasting value for his clients.
capSpire provides global advisory services, implements new technologies and processes, and offers operational support to ensure continuous improvement across the energy and commodity industries. “I always look for the human element in consulting and problem-solving,” Ralf explains.
In an era dominated by artificial intelligence, he believes that creativity remains essential. His approach blends technology, individual strengths, and institutional knowledge, ensuring solutions are both innovative and practical.
Navigating the complexities of commodity and energy risk and trading management (C/ETRM) is no simple task. Each client faces unique challenges, and selecting and implementing the right C/ETRM software is far from a one-size-fits-all process. According to Ralf, the best way to begin is with an approach rooted in capSpire’s methodology and expertise, with governance at its core.
Many commodity and energy trading companies lack strong governance models, leading to reactive decision-making and inefficiencies.
“Without solid structures in place, issues escalate before they’re even noticed,” Ralf says. Weak governance and poor controls often result in micromanagement cultures, limiting team empowerment. “Good governance means trusting your experts. You should be able to tell me what you need and what’s holding you back. That’s the foundation we should build upon.”
capSpire leads by example, employing well-established methodologies that ensure smooth and efficient client engagement. Through a mix of collaborative, iterative, and waterfall approaches, clients stay informed and actively involved at every stage—experiencing, learning, and adapting as the system evolves.
Ralf also leverages insights from different regions, an advantage of working with a globally connected team of dedicated problem-solvers. “If another country or region has successfully addressed a particular challenge, we can apply those proven strategies because we already know they work,” says Ralf.
He firmly believes in the power of cross-cultural learning. “There’s immense value in understanding how different cultures approach work and problem-solving,” he says. “Communication styles vary, and recognizing these differences is an advantage. The key is being open to new perspectives and willing to adapt.” For Ralf, this openness is essential to operating successfully on a global scale.
At its core, capSpire’s mission is to find a better way—continually evolving and learning to enhance industry practices and drive efficiency for all stakeholders. For Ralf, that better way is built on collaboration, creativity, and a solid foundation of best practices and governance. “We’re good consultants because we’ve learned from the best examples,” he says
To learn more about how capSpire helps commodity and energy businesses, connect with Ralf.
