From Sugar to Sustainability: Sunil Appan on Career Growth and Green Energy
In our latest episode of TheMorePeople Podcast, we were delighted to welcome Sunil Appan, an experienced leader in energy, sustainability, and food manufacturing, to discuss his fascinating career journey, the role of anaerobic digestion in the UK’s energy future, and the importance of investing in education and people.
Hosted by our very own Andrew Fitzmaurice, the episode dives into Sunil’s transition from food manufacturing to renewable energy, offering valuable insights for job seekers, hiring managers, and sustainability advocates alike.
A Career Powered by Curiosity and Opportunity
Sunil's professional story began back in 2009, following his graduation from university. He joined the prestigious ABF British Sugar Graduate Programme, where he spent over a decade learning the intricacies of sugar production and project engineering.
After several years managing major control system projects, Sunil made a pivotal shift from engineering to energy trading and procurement. “A generous boss took a punt on me,” he says, highlighting the importance of open-minded leadership. This move propelled him into energy procurement roles across the ABF group, including big-name brands like Kingsmill and Primark.
Eventually, Sunil found himself leading energy risk and sustainability efforts across multiple ABF businesses, even spearheading investigations into decarbonisation pathways for sugar manufacturing facilities in the UK.
Entering the Green Gas Revolution
After a short sabbatical, which included building part of a house, Sunil joined Future Biogas in early 2024. The company operates in anaerobic digestion (AD) a process that breaks down organic material to produce renewable gas. It's a growing sector that’s already contributing around 1% of the UK’s gas supply.
Sunil explains, “What we’re doing is injecting green molecules into the UK’s existing gas network instead of fossil ones.” By working with 400+ farmers across the East Midlands and East Anglia, Future Biogas helps develop rotational energy crops (mainly maize) while returning digestate to enrich soil and support farm resilience.
Crucially, this model not only helps decarbonise UK energy but also supports British agriculture by providing farmers with diversified income streams and long-term sustainability benefits.
Tackling Big Questions in Energy and Agriculture
The conversation touches on key questions around the future of AD: Should the industry focus on alleviating waste, or is there a place for purpose-grown energy crops? What does a "green gas marketplace" look like in practice? And how can policy changes support the UK’s move toward energy independence?
Sunil is optimistic but grounded. “Other countries in Europe are already meeting up to 50% of their gas demand through green gas. For the UK to follow suit, we’ll need some smart policy decisions and sustained corporate ambition,” he says.
Beyond Energy: A Passion for Education and Leadership
Sunil doesn’t stop at energy innovation. He’s also a non-executive director at the Association for Decentralised Energy (ADE) and a governor at Inspire Education Group, an organisation supporting over 10,000 students and 1,500 staff across Stamford College, Peterborough College, and University Centre Peterborough.
“It’s an incredible institution, right on my doorstep,” he says. “It gives me insight into an entirely different world - governance, leadership, and the development of young people.”
Advice for the Next Generation
Sunil’s message to young people is clear: “The renewable energy space is full of opportunity. Whether you’re joining a 150,000-strong corporation or starting something on your own, there’s room for you. Be curious, ask good questions, and don’t be afraid to try.”
And, true to his inclusive approach, Sunil offers his time to anyone passionate about exploring a career in sustainability or energy.
Final Thoughts
Sunil Appan’s career is a brilliant example of how diverse experiences, from sugar factories to boardrooms, can shape a dynamic and impactful journey. His story blends technical expertise, commercial acumen, and a genuine commitment to sustainability and people.
If you haven’t already, listen to the full episode of the MorePeople Podcast. Whether you’re a hiring manager, student, or job seeker, there’s something here for everyone looking to make a difference.
