Laura Cordero
Full name: Laura Cordero
Function: Team Lead, RNG Trade Operations
Location: Amsterdam
Nationality: Spanish
Years at STX: 5+ years
1. Your career shows strong growth across commercial and operational roles in international environments. What attracted you to STX and how have your previous experiences influenced the way you contribute to your work today?
What attracted me to STX was the entrepreneurial culture, environmental impact of the products we trade and the opportunity to grow within an international environment. I joined with the ambition to be part of a company that was scaling fast, where I could have impact and also evolve professionally.
My previous experience across different markets and roles shaped my approach to problem-solving, collaboration and adaptability. Having worn both commercial and operational hats, I’ve gained a broader perspective which now helps me see the bigger picture and connect day-to-day decisions with long-term strategy, especially now in a leadership position.
2. You started at STX as a sales trader for the Spanish market but soon moved into Trade Operations. What prompted the shift and what challenges or opportunities did you face early on?
I was naturally drawn to the operational side because I wanted to understand the processes that happened after a trade was closed. At the same time, I valued staying connected to clients and internal stakeholders, which made Trade Operations the perfect fit.
My experience in sales trading gave me a strong understanding of our products and systems. This background helps me bring a client-focused approach to operations and bridge commercial and technical teams.
3. Before moving to the US, you worked in Amsterdam covering the US and Mexican markets. What key trends have you seen in these regions in recent years?
In recent years, one of the biggest trends I’ve observed is the growing regulatory and voluntary focus on decarbonization. There’s been a notable increase in interest from corporates looking to manage their emissions profiles driven by ESG commitments.
In LATAM, although the market is less mature, there’s been increasing awareness and demand for environmental products, especially from multinational companies operating in the region.
Both markets are evolving quickly, with a lot of momentum in renewable products and gas, which is one of the reasons I’ve transitioned into that space.
4. Looking back on your time at STX, what contributions or milestones are you most proud of, particularly as the company has grown and expanded its presence across the Americas?
I’m proud to have built the Operations department for the US from the ground up, supporting the New York, Houston and Mexico offices. Designing core processes, aligning cross-border workflows and building a strong, reliable team have all been key to enabling the region’s growth. In particular, seeing the New York team evolve into a solid, autonomous team has been incredibly rewarding.
Returning to a leadership role, now with a specialized focus, allows me to build on the structure we created while guiding the team through its next phase and adding value to the commercial team.
5. How was your experience building the team and adapting the Dutch STX model to the US? What challenges did you face and how did the New York team support you?
Building the team and adapting the Dutch STX model to the US was very challenging from day one, but also incredibly fun and rewarding. The pace, different processes and cultural differences demanded a lot of flexibility and creativity.
I will always be grateful for the warm welcome from the New York team; they made me feel at home from day one, both inside and outside the office. Their support and openness were key to overcoming challenges and successfully establishing our presence in the US.
6. After three years supporting trade activities in the US and Mexico, what led to your move into a dedicated role in Renewable Natural Gas?
Having developed a deep understanding of Environmental Attribute Certificates (EACs), their day-to-day implementation and the key factors for success, I was ready for a new challenge and eager to keep learning and growing within the company.
In my new role, I plan to apply the experience I’ve gained over the years, both within the company and the sector, to establish successful operational processes in the Renewable Natural Gas space.
7. As you move into the RNG team, how do you see the market evolving and what role do you envision for yourself within this dynamic sector?
I believe the RNG market is more complex than EACs, and it requires a strong understanding of sustainability. It’s important to create processes that truly support the business, since standard ways of working don’t always fit.
My role will focus on leveraging this expertise to develop and manage operational frameworks that ensure efficiency and compliance in this evolving sector.