Meet Alan Ackerman: Leading Market Intelligence Through Change and Innovation 

VP Market Intelligence, Market IQ | 18+ Years at CES 

Alan Ackerman’s journey to leading Customized Energy Solutions’ (CES) Market Intelligence team started in an unlikely place: pharmaceutical sales. When his father-in-law, an early CES team member, suggested he consider energy consulting, Alan made a leap of faith that’s paid off for nearly two decades. 

“I came from one very highly regulated industry where my skill set was taking complex information and relating it into understandable language,” Alan shares. “Stephen [Fernands, CEO, CES] had confidence I could bring those skills to energy markets, and here we are, 18 years later.” 

From Consultant to Team Leader 

Starting as a junior consultant focused on the New York ISO in 2007, Alan now leads a 24-person team covering all ISO/RTO markets across North America. His days are packed with client calls, team meetings, and strategic planning—but his leadership philosophy centers on what he calls “confidence with humility.” 

“When we’re talking with a prospect about ERCOT, I handle the contracts and logistics, but it’s our ERCOT expert who shares the real market insights,” he explains. “My job is connecting those dots and making sure clients get the expertise they need.” 

A Culture of Continuous Improvement 

Since taking on the Team Lead role in February, Alan has focused on evolving Market IQ to meet both current and future client needs. His approach to innovation is rooted in listening—to clients, to his team, and to industry trends. 

“We can’t get comfortable or stick with ‘how we’ve always done things,'” Alan explains. “In this evolving landscape, we’re the intelligence organization for our clients. We need to stay at the cutting edge of what’s happening and how to help them navigate it.” 

This philosophy drives everything from how the team collaborates internally to how they deliver insights to clients. Alan believes in continuous improvement across all aspects of Market IQ’s operations, ensuring the team has the tools and support needed to provide exceptional service in an ever-changing industry. 

 Thriving on Industry Disruption 

What energizes Alan most about the energy sector is its dynamic nature. While uncertainty might concern some, he views it as exactly what makes CES’s market intelligence valuable. 

“Right now, there’s incredible disruption in our industry,” he explains enthusiastically. “Renewable energy policies, state-level initiatives, federal regulatory changes—all creating complexity that clients need help navigating. That’s exactly where we shine.” 

Alan jokes that he “welcomes chaos with a smile,” but there’s genuine enthusiasm behind it. He believes market disruption creates opportunities for expert guidance and strategic thinking. 

Leadership Lessons 

Managing 24 consultants across diverse markets has taught Alan the importance of communication and adaptability. “I genuinely believe 95% of problems come down to communication issues,” he shares. “So much of my role is about making sure everyone’s on the same page.” 

His approach recognizes that one size doesn’t fit all: “Everyone brings something different to the table, and part of my job is figuring out how to support each person in the way that works best for them and our clients.” 

Beyond the Markets 

Outside work, Alan prioritizes family time, DIY projects, and travel. Here’s a fun fact: early in his career while selling books, he had dinner with legendary singer Patti LaBelle when she was promoting her authored work. “She was as warm and engaging as you’d expect,” he recalls with a grin. 

Advice for Energy Newcomers 

For anyone considering the energy sector, Alan offers practical guidance: “The most important thing is getting that first industry experience, even if it means starting at an entry level.” 

He notes that once you’re in and have gained experience, there’s significant mobility. “Get a year or two of solid industry experience, then evaluate where you want to go next. The experience you’ve gained will give you options.” 

With AI implementation moving forward and new market challenges constantly emerging, Alan continues to embrace change with enthusiasm. His focus remains clear: ensuring CES stays ahead of market developments while providing clients with the insights they need to make confident decisions in an increasingly dynamic energy landscape.