7 May 2026
AlumniAlumni Spotlight: Brendan Devlin – From Red House School to Global Climate Policy Leadership
Brendan Devlin (Class of 1979) credits a simple decision at Red House School with helping shape his future. Today, he lives in Brussels and works for the European Commission, supporting international efforts to tackle climate change and transition away from fossil fuels.
Sometimes a small suggestion can shape an entire career.
When Brendan was a pupil at Red House School, a teacher suggested that anyone not interested in Latin could learn German instead. Brendan decided to give it a try – a decision that would prove life-changing.
Today, Brendan works as Methane, Fossil Fuel Phase Out and Just Transition Advisor in the Directorate-General for Energy at the European Commission. Based in Brussels, his work focuses on supporting the global transition away from fossil fuels, reducing methane emissions and contributing to international climate policy.
One of Brendan’s most notable achievements came in 2021 when he conceived and delivered the Global Methane Pledge. He continues to play an important role in international energy and climate initiatives.
Before joining the European Commission, Brendan enjoyed a varied and distinguished career. His professional experience includes working as a journalist writing for the national press, serving as an editor at Oxford Analytica, holding the position of Director of Regulation Europe at Enron, and teaching political economy at the London School of Economics.
Reflecting on the experiences that helped shape his career, Brendan offers this advice to current pupils:
“Learn foreign languages, and maths, and it will open the world to you.”
Brendan’s journey demonstrates how opportunities, encouragement and a willingness to try something new can open unexpected doors and lead to a fascinating and varied career.
We love hearing about the achievements and experiences of our former pupils.
If you are a Red House School alumnus and would like to feature in a future Alumni Spotlight, please contact Sara Storm at sara.storm@redhouseschool.co.uk. We would be delighted to hear from you.
Share Your Story
We are always keen to hear from former pupils and learn where life has taken them since leaving Red House School.
Whether you have followed an interesting career path, achieved something you are proud of, or simply have fond memories of your time at Red House, we would love to hear your story and celebrate it with our school community.
To be featured in a future Alumni Spotlight, please contact Sara Storm at sara.storm@redhouseschool.co.uk.
