Since Energy UK was formed in 2012, Lawrence was the Chief Operating Officer with specific executive responsibility for all energy supply activities including Retail Markets, Smart Metering and Grids, Energy Efficiency and consumer engagement. Lawrence has been involved with the energy industry since the late 1990s. Prior to the creation of Energy UK, he ran the Energy Retail Association. Before that, Lawrence ran the Society of Petroleum Engineers where, as Regional Managing Director, he greatly expanded the society's operations in the emerging energy markets of Russia, the Caspian and Africa. Lawrence has also served as Deputy Chief Executive and Technical Director of the Energy Institute in London.