Rafael is a researcher from Tamaulipas (Mexico) that joined WBS in 2018. After obtaining his M.Sc. degree in logistics and supply chain management from the University of Sheffield (2014), he became a lecturer at the School of Commerce and Management of the University of Tamaulipas (2015). Currently he is a non-resident research fellow at the Laboratory of Regional Studies (LabER) from the same University. Rafael regularly teaches undergraduate and postgraduate students at the University of Warwick and participates in the Warwick's Energy Global Research Priority.

Research Topic

My research interests span the areas of institutional change, strategy in state-owned enterprises and the intersection with political economy and energy policy. My work focuses on the impact of institutional change processes on the corporate strategy of National Oil Companies (NOCs) and the NOC relationship with the State in the context of a global transition to a low-carbon economy and climate change.

A summary of the research area

The PhD research explores the role of the Mexican NOC, Pemex, in the context of a global energy transition and the nature of the relationship between the State and the NOC. From a historical, institutional change perspective, the research explores the influence of processes of institutional reforms to the energy sector and Pemex in three different periods: from 2000 to 2012, under right-wing governments, 2012 to 2018, under a centre-right government which undertook major energy reforms, and from 2018 under a left-wing government. The project has a case study and qualitative-research approach using interviews, documentary analysis and scenario development.

The research also explores the influence of political cycles on Pemex's corporate strategy. The case of Pemex and Mexico shows how a NOC has evolved in its role and operations with institutional reforms amid climate change and energy system transformations. The discussion also sheds light on the future of NOCs, their strategy to manage climate risks, and their role as proxies of producer economies and their geopolitical interests.

Supervisors

Professor Michael Bradshaw

Professor David Elmes

E-portfolio link

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafaelvaquera/