Leadership in Renewable Energy: 20 Key Thought Leaders in Renewable Energy
Thought leaders bring innovative ideas, proven strategies, and experience, guiding companies toward sustainable growth and competitive advantage. They offer fresh perspectives on overcoming industry challenges and can inspire teams to embrace new technologies and practices.
And you’re reading the right article because we'll help you identify the leading voices in the renewable energy sector.
Let's dive in.
Who Are Renewable Energy Industry Thought Leaders and Why Follow Them?
Renewable energy industry thought leaders are experts who shape the future of sustainable power through innovation and advocacy. Following them offers direct insights into cutting-edge technologies, policy developments, and market trends.
Their expertise can help you navigate the industry's complexities, making informed decisions that drive your projects forward. Connecting with these influencers ensures you're always ahead of the curve in adopting best practices and sustainable solutions.
Top 20 Renewable Energy Thought Leaders in 2024
1. Christian Bruch
Business website: Siemens Energy
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Leadership in sustainable energy transformation and insights into global energy solutions.
Christian Bruch holds the reins at Siemens Energy as the President, CEO, and Chief Sustainability Officer, steering the company toward its mission of "energizing society." Under his leadership, Siemens Energy has become a beacon for those interested in meeting increasing global energy demands while committing to sustainability. Since Siemens Energy's inception as an independent entity in 2020, Bruch has been pivotal in shaping its direction, emphasizing the importance of providing sustainable, reliable, and affordable energy access worldwide. His dedication to customer satisfaction, technological innovation, and empowering people is reflected in the company's approach to addressing the urgent challenge of climate change, with a clear focus on taking actionable steps toward a sustainable future.
What you can learn from Christian Bruch:
By following Christian Bruch, you can understand how large energy companies adapt and innovate in response to the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions. His perspective offers valuable insights into the strategies and technologies that will drive the future of energy, emphasizing the role of leadership, customer focus, and human potential in achieving these goals. Bruch's approach to tackling climate change through incremental yet impactful actions provides a roadmap for professionals seeking to contribute to a more sustainable energy landscape, highlighting the importance of collective effort in this global challenge.
2. Dr. Thomas HilliG
Business website: THEnergy
Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter
Follow for: Expertise in microgrids, mini-grids, off-grid renewable energy, energy storage, and sustainable solutions for commercial and industrial sectors.
Dr. Thomas Hillig, the managing director of THEnergy, a boutique consultancy specializing in microgrids, mini-grids, and off-grid renewable energy, is a prominent figure in the clean energy sector. With a focus on energy storage and renewable energy solutions for commercial and industrial customers, Hillig offers comprehensive consulting services that include market intelligence, market entry strategies, implementation, policy advice, financing, due diligence, and communication.
His firm's unique position in the market is further enhanced by its involvement in rural electrification, energy access applications, and innovation within the renewable energy landscape. As a member of the board of advisors for the Africa Solar Industry Association, Hillig actively promotes solar energy across the continent, underscoring his commitment to sustainable energy development.
What you can learn from Dr. Thomas Hillig:
Dr. Thomas Hillig provides insights into the intricacies of implementing renewable energy solutions in diverse settings, from commercial and industrial applications to rural electrification projects. His expertise in navigating the regulatory and financial landscapes of the clean energy sector, coupled with a strong focus on sustainability and corporate social responsibility, offers valuable guidance for businesses and investors looking to transition to renewable energy sources. Hillig's approach to energy consulting, characterized by a blend of technical know-how and strategic market insights, helps you learn how to innovate and invest in the future of clean, sustainable energy.
3. Michael LiebreicH
Business website: EcoPragma Capital LLP
Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter
Follow for: Expert analysis on clean energy, sustainable transport, and global energy market trends.
Michael Liebreich, Chairman and CEO of Liebreich Associates, is a distinguished figure in the clean energy sector, providing top-tier advisory and speaking services. As the founder of Bloomberg New Energy Finance, Liebreich established the leading research provider on clean energy and transport, guiding the company until its acquisition by Bloomberg in 2009 and continuing to influence as Chairman of the Advisory Board until 2017.
His roles extend to serving on the UK Department of International Trade's Advisory Board, chairing the Ecovillages charity for sustainable mountain communities, and holding a Visiting Professorship at Imperial College Energy Futures Lab. Liebreich's engagement in various capacities, including chairing the smart mobility startup Zeelo and investing in technology, showcases his multifaceted expertise and leadership in the field.
What you can learn from Michael Liebreich:
Michael Liebreich offers insights into the intersection of clean energy, sustainable infrastructure, and innovative transport solutions. His extensive background in founding and leading Bloomberg New Energy Finance equips him with a deep understanding of market dynamics and emerging trends in the renewable energy sector. Tuning into his analyses and perspectives helps you gain valuable knowledge on the strategic direction of clean energy investments, policy implications, and the future of sustainable transport. All that is essential for professionals navigating the complexities of the global energy landscape.
4. Salem Afeworki
Business website: City of Costa Mesa
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Expert insights into sustainability, renewable energy planning, responsible business practices, and climate change from a seasoned thought leader and practitioner.
Salem Afeworki is an influential thought leader and practitioner with over 10 years of invaluable experience in sustainability, renewable energy planning, responsible business practices, and climate change. Her expertise has benefited a wide array of organizations, including the private sector, local government, transportation agencies, international aid agencies, think tanks, and NGOs.
Salem's extensive experience has taken her to diverse settings across North America, Europe, Latin America, and Africa, allowing her to cultivate a global, pragmatic, and inclusive approach to problem-solving.
Salem's comprehensive background covers a broad spectrum of vital areas, including sustainability and renewable energy strategy, planning, and reporting. Her adeptness in strategy and project management, coupled with a deep understanding of Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues, equips her to address complex challenges effectively.
She is well-versed in climate change mitigation and adaptation, risk management, and resilience, making her a valuable asset to any organization seeking to navigate sustainability in a changing world. Salem's skills also extend to community outreach and engagement, public-private partnerships, and grant and proposal writing.
What you can learn from Salem Afeworki:
Salem Afeworki's expertise in sustainability, renewable energy planning, ESG, and climate change provides a wealth of knowledge for those seeking to navigate the complex sustainability landscape. Her practical experience in strategy and project management and her understanding of ESG issues offer actionable insights for organizations looking to embrace responsible business practices. Salem's commitment to community engagement, public-private partnerships, and her proficiency in grant and proposal writing serve as valuable lessons for professionals in the field. Additionally, her certifications and affiliations highlight the importance of continuous learning and involvement in sustainability and renewable energy initiatives.
5. Damilola Ogunbiyi
Business website: Sustainable Energy for All
Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter
Follow for: Insights into sustainable energy, global development, and SDG7 implementation.
Damilola Ogunbiyi is pivotal as the United Nations Secretary-General's Special Representative (SRSG) for SDG 7 and Sustainable Energy for All. Additionally, she serves as the co-chair of UN-Energy, providing invaluable advice to the UN Secretary-General and his team on sustainable energy and implementing Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7).
As the Chief Executive Officer of Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), Ogunbiyi focuses on addressing energy access disparities. Her work is dedicated to demonstrating the feasibility of a clean energy transition and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to lead a prosperous, dignified, and healthy life.
Ogunbiyi leads SEforALL's efforts to bring clarity and direction to the critical path toward SDG7 implementation within the Paris Agreement on Climate Change framework. In this role, she collaborates seamlessly with the private and public sectors, fostering a global network of institutions and companies to catalyze country-level actions and support high-impact opportunities across various sectors.
What you can learn from Damilola Ogunbiyi:
Damilola Ogunbiyi is an expert in sustainable energy and global development. Her role as the UN SRSG for SDG7 and her leadership at SEforALL provide a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities associated with universal access to clean and affordable energy. Ogunbiyi's work spans the public and private sectors, making her a key player in driving collaborative efforts towards sustainable energy solutions. Her commitment to positively impacting global development and energy access makes her a thought leader worth following.
6. Jeff Gustavson
Business website: Chevron New Energies
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Strategic developments in hydrogen, carbon capture, biofuels, and scalable low-carbon solutions.
Jeff Gustavson, serving as the President of New Energies at Chevron since 2021, brings over two decades of experience within the company to spearhead initiatives aimed at reducing carbon footprints.
His role focuses on identifying and commercializing lower carbon solutions that show promise for scalability, including hydrogen, carbon capture, and biofuels. Gustavson's leadership is pivotal in Chevron's transition towards more sustainable energy practices, aligning with the global push for cleaner energy sources.
His involvement extends beyond Chevron, as he contributes to the engineering and innovation communities through his advisory roles at the University of Colorado and participation in the Chevron Employee Political Action Committee.
What you can learn from:
Jeff Gustavson clarifies how a leading oil and gas company is pivoting toward sustainable energy solutions. His work in commercializing viable low-carbon technologies offers a glimpse into the future of energy, highlighting the potential for traditional energy companies to contribute to a sustainable energy ecosystem. Gustavson's approach underscores the importance of scalability in low-carbon solutions, providing valuable perspectives for professionals interested in the intersection of sustainability and commercial viability within the energy sector.
7. Gabriela Herculano
Business website: iClima Earth Ltd
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Innovative approaches to climate change investments and insights into CO2e avoidance strategies.
Gabriela Herculano, the CEO and Co-Founder of iClima Earth is at the forefront of redefining climate change investments by concentrating on companies that facilitate CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) avoidance. Based in London, iClima Earth is an impact-driven green FinTech firm that aims to shift the investment narrative toward those enabling a low-carbon economy. The company additionally offers products that demonstrate tangible, quantifiable impacts.
Herculano, also a columnist for Illuminem and the Managing Director at Invest & Grow Projects Ltd, shares her expertise on energy transition, distributed renewable energy, decarbonization strategies, and thematic green investments, contributing valuable perspectives to the discourse on sustainable finance.
What you can learn from Gabriela Herculano:
Gabriela Herculano provides a unique lens on climate finance, focusing on the positive impact of investment in carbon reduction technologies and services. Her work emphasizes the importance of directing capital toward solutions facilitating the transition to a low-carbon economy, offering a proactive approach to climate change mitigation. Through her writings and leadership at iClima Earth, Herculano gives insights into how financial products can be structured to support and measure the real impact on CO2e avoidance, providing a roadmap for investors and companies interested in making a meaningful contribution to environmental sustainability.
8. Rebecca Kujawa
Business website: NextEra Energy Resources
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Insights into renewable energy, battery storage, and the green hydrogen economy from the President and CEO of NextEra Energy Resources.
Rebecca Kujawa is a prominent figure in the renewable energy industry, serving as the President and CEO of NextEra Energy Resources, the world's largest renewable energy generator from wind and solar sources. She is also a leading force in battery storage technology and is actively driving the development of the green hydrogen economy.
Her impact extends to her role as President and Board member of NextEra Energy Partners, an LP dedicated to acquiring, managing, and owning clean energy projects under contract.
Rebecca Kujawa's impressive career has seen her in key executive positions within NextEra Energy, including Chief Financial Officer for NextEra Energy and Florida Power & Light. Before her tenure with NextEra, she was Senior VP of Equity Research at Stanford Group and an Equity Derivatives Analyst at Goldman Sachs.
What you can learn from Rebecca Kujawa:
With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Policy Studies from Duke University and a Chartered Financial Analyst designation, Rebecca Kujawa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the renewable energy sector.
So, follow her for valuable insights into renewable energy, battery storage, and the emerging green hydrogen economy. Her wealth of experience and financial acumen make her a respected authority in the field. Moreover, her leadership at NextEra Energy Resources places her at the forefront of shaping the future of sustainable energy solutions.
9. Gary Lawrence
Business website: Schneider Electric
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Innovations in digital and sustainable energy solutions within the power and grid sector.
As the Power & Grid Segment President at Schneider Electric, Gary Lawrence is a pivotal figure driving the shift towards a more sustainable and green future in the energy sector. With a career marked by a strong customer focus and a knack for developing innovative product solutions, Lawrence has significantly contributed to Schneider Electric's growth and market presence.
His leadership is characterized by a deep commitment to sustainable practices and the digitization of energy management, aiming to increase efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Lawrence's global experience in industrial management and his ability to foster cultural change and implement strategic initiatives position him as a thought leader in the renewable energy industry.
What you can learn from Gary Lawrence:
Gary Lawrence discusses topics such as digital transformation and sustainability in the energy sector, particularly within power and grid management. His expertise in creating innovative solutions that drive revenue growth and contribute to a more sustainable future provides valuable lessons for professionals seeking to make an impact in the renewable energy space.
Lawrence's approach to leadership, team motivation, and customer relationship building offers a comprehensive view of the energy industry while emphasizing green and sustainable practices.
10. Kees van der Leun
Business website: Common Futures. Energy Transition Specialists
Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter
Follow for: Comprehensive strategies and analyses for achieving global renewable energy transition and reducing carbon emissions.
Kees van der Leun is a seasoned sustainable energy expert with over 35 years of experience spanning consulting, business development, management, and strategy. His work focuses on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and carbon emission reduction, aiming for a global transition to 100% renewable energy by 2050. As the initiator and project director of The Energy Report published by WWF in 2011, van der Leun has provided a thorough analysis of the pathways to achieve this ambitious goal.
He has also led system integration projects for major initiatives like Gas for Climate, the European Hydrogen Backbone, and the North Sea Wind Power Hub consortium. In 2021, he co-founded Common Futures, an advisory firm dedicated to guiding governments and companies through the renewable energy transition.
What you can learn from Kees van der Leun:
Following Kees van der Leun equips you with strategic insights into the multifaceted aspects of the energy transition. His work offers a blend of creative consultation and practical solutions for overcoming the challenges of shifting to renewable energy sources. Van der Leun's expertise in system integration and his leadership in significant energy projects provide a roadmap for implementing large-scale renewable energy infrastructures. His vision for a renewable future and his actionable strategies make him an invaluable resource for those committed to reducing carbon emissions and advancing the global energy transition.
11. Chris Lettman
Business website: CL Green Energy Consulting
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Expertise in business development, project management, and sales in the solar energy industry.
Chris Lettman is a seasoned professional with a strong background in the solar energy industry, particularly in business development, project management, and sales. His qualifications and experience make him a valuable thought leader in the renewable energy sector.
In business development, Lettman excels in conducting market analysis for Solar PV projects across the United States. He specializes in originating utility-scale and large-scale C&I (Commercial and Industrial) projects, utilizing online research tools to identify project opportunities.
Lettman is known for his proficiency in project management, where he coordinates with various stakeholders, including EPCs (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction firms), equipment suppliers, law firms, and third-party consultants. His skills ensure that projects are successfully executed, pricing negotiations are carried out effectively, and due diligence processes progress seamlessly.
In marketing, Lettman leverages his industry knowledge by attending national and international conferences and trade shows to promote his company, identify new opportunities, and connect with potential clients. He utilizes social media to enhance the company's brand visibility and collaborates with other firms for mutual promotion.
In sales, Lettman consistently achieves and exceeds targets within his territory. His strong business acumen allows him to identify and address complex issues, and his proficiency in computer skills aids in streamlining processes.
What you can learn from Chris Lettman:
Chris Lettman helps you decipher business development, project management, and sales in the solar energy industry. His expertise in origination, due diligence, and financial modeling is valuable for professionals in the renewable energy sector. Lettman's ability to effectively coordinate with various stakeholders and ensure the successful execution of projects offers valuable lessons in project management. Additionally, his strategies for marketing and achieving sales targets can provide actionable insights for those looking to excel in the renewable energy field.
12. Olanrewaju Ajeigbe
Business website: Sun Africa LLC
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Insights into renewable energy, electrical design, and project management expertise.
Olanrewaju Ajeigbe is an experienced Renewable Energy Professional with a rich Electrical Design, Construction, and Project Management background. His journey in the renewable energy industry is marked by innovation, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to sustainable solutions.
Ajeigbe's expertise spans a wide range of impactful areas within the renewable energy landscape. He is well-versed in orchestrating Solar Self-Consumption strategies for diverse settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial environments. His leadership extends to driving Solar Mini-grids and Rural Electrification initiatives, contributing to monumental Utility Scale Solar projects, and harnessing the potential of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to optimize energy solutions.
A collaborative spirit defines Ajeigbe's dedication to making a difference. He firmly believes in the power of teamwork and actively supports fellow team members while taking initiative when needed. In his role overseeing technical teams, he seamlessly combines project management prowess with acute attention to detail. That’s how he swiftly identifies challenges and offers tailor-made solutions.
What you can learn from Olanrewaju Ajeigbe:
Olanrewaju Ajeigbe is an expert in renewable energy, electrical design, and project management, all crucial to building a sustainable future. His diverse expertise in solar strategies, mini-grids, and rural electrification offers valuable lessons for those seeking to make an impact in the renewable energy sector. Ajeigbe's collaborative approach to teamwork and his commitment to adaptability and learning are inspiring examples for professionals in the field. Additionally, his proficiency in various technical tools and software underscores the importance of staying up-to-date with technology in the renewable energy industry.
13. Bart Frischknecht
Business website: Lumen Energy
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: A dynamic and empathetic business leader with a track record of fostering innovation and change for a better world.
Bart Frischknecht is an inspiring business leader known for his unique blend of empathy, enthusiasm, and analytical acumen. He possesses a remarkable ability to motivate others by instilling hope, excitement, and a visionary perspective aimed at creating businesses that positively impact the world.
Frischknecht's persuasive and clear communication skills enable him to convey important ideas effectively. His leadership extends to managing high-performing projects and teams, where he mentors colleagues to tackle complex challenges with determination, discipline, curiosity, and creativity.
With over 15 years of experience in product development, marketing, and sales across diverse industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, technology, automotive, financial services, higher education, professional services, and consumer goods, Frischknecht brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. He has built and managed software products at two SaaS (Software as a Service) companies and has advised company boards, CEOs, C-suite leaders, and product teams on growth strategies.
What you can learn from Bart Frischknecht:
Bart Frischknecht is a visionary leader who excels in harnessing the power of empathy and enthusiasm to drive meaningful change. His approach to innovation and problem-solving, characterized by determination and creativity, inspires professionals across various industries. Frischknecht's diverse experience in product development and growth strategy offers valuable insights for individuals seeking to make a positive impact in their respective fields. His leadership and commitment to creating businesses that improve the world make him a thought leader worth following.
14. Prem Singh
Business website: S&P Global
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Insights into product management, technology, and innovation at the intersection of business strategy and user needs.
Prem Singh's journey in the digital product landscape began with an unusual starting point—breaking digital products. He embarked on his career as a QA Engineer, which gave him a unique perspective on leading cross-functional technology teams effectively.
Over time, he developed a deep affinity for collaborating with technologists, setting the stage for his future endeavors.
In the second phase of his career as a Product Manager, Singh honed his skills in understanding end users, adopting data-driven decision-making, crafting intuitive solutions, and mastering stakeholder management. With a career spanning over a decade and crossing multiple industries, he has consistently generated value at the convergence of technology, business strategy, and user needs.
One of Singh's standout qualities is his ability to bridge the gap between technical and business audiences, translating complex concepts effortlessly. He thrives on creative collaboration and is deeply committed to mentoring early-career professionals and students, providing them with guidance and insights from his wealth of experience.
Singh's notable projects, including the Fujairah Ledger, Trade Vision, and Distro Energy, have made global headlines for their innovative approaches to solving industry challenges. His current focus areas include discussions on energy transition, clean-tech, software-defined vehicles, and e-mobility.
What you can learn from Prem Singh:
Prem Singh offers a window into product management, technology, and innovation. His journey from QA Engineer to Product Manager demonstrates the diverse skill set required to excel in the digital product landscape. Singh's ability to translate technical complexities into practical business solutions is a valuable skill for professionals across various industries. His passion for mentoring and commitment to positively impacting the next generation of professionals are additional reasons to follow him.
15. Wasundara Doradeniya
Business website :
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Insights into environmental policy, data analysis, and climate change mitigation.
Wasundara Doradeniya, whose name means 'the earth' in Sanskrit, embodies her commitment to creating a more sustainable and equitable world. With over 2 years of experience in policy and data analysis, she holds a Master's degree in Environmental Policy from Central European University in Vienna.
Her academic and professional journey has taken her across multiple countries in the Global North and South, shaping her unique perspective on addressing global challenges. Wasundara Doradeniya is now an experienced policy and data analyst strongly dedicated to environmental sustainability.
Currently, Wasundara holds the Policy and Market Analyst position, leading the Energy and Decarbonisation workstream at both the World Biogas Association and the UK's AD and Bioresources Association. In this role, she actively engages with government consultations, produces data-driven reports, collaborates with stakeholders from diverse sectors, and excels in developing informative data visualizations.
What you can learn from Wasundara Doradeniya:
Wasundara's commitment to addressing climate change through policy development is evident in her work, making her a valuable source of insights and expertise in environmental policy and data analysis.
Follow Wasundara Doradeniya for her expertise in environmental policy, data analysis, and unwavering dedication to mitigating climate change. Her unique perspective, cultivated through experiences across different regions, helps you make a positive impact on the environment.
16. Kristina Skierka
Business website: Power for All
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Advocacy and innovative strategies for universal energy access and decentralized renewable energy solutions.
Kristina Skierka, the CEO and founder of the Power for All campaign, is a driving force behind the global movement aiming for universal energy access by 2025. Power for All coordinates international and country-led efforts in East and West Africa and India, focusing on decentralized renewable energy solutions such as mini-grids, solar rooftop systems, and mobile solar farms.
A recognized voice in the energy sector, Skierka's insights and contributions have been featured across major news outlets, underlining her influence and commitment to ending energy poverty. Her accolades, including being named Energy Foundation’s Senior Fellow and receiving the 2022 Real Leaders Eco Innovation Award, reflect her impactful work in the field.
What you can learn from Kristina Skierka:
Kristina Skierka analyzes the transformative potential of decentralized renewable energy in achieving universal energy access. Her expertise in social marketing, cleantech business strategies, and stakeholder engagement provides a comprehensive understanding of how to drive public and private sector participation in sustainable energy initiatives. Skierka's work emphasizes the critical role of innovative energy solutions and strategic communication in overcoming energy poverty, offering valuable insights for professionals dedicated to sustainable development and renewable energy advocacy.
17. Stanley E. Porter
Business website: Deloitte
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Strategic insights into energy transition, sustainable development, and smart energy management within the Energy, Resources & Industrials sectors.
Stanley E. Porter is the Global & US Energy, Resources & Industrials (ER&I) Industry Leader at Deloitte, steering a vast team of over 44,000 professionals who serve a significant portion of the Global Fortune 500 clients in sectors ranging from Power, Utilities & Renewables to Oil, Gas & Chemicals. With more than three decades of experience in the industry, Porter has been instrumental in advising some of the largest names in the field on a myriad of business issues, including strategy, restructuring, and technology adoption. His commitment to aiding clients through the fourth industrial revolution and towards a lower carbon future is evident through his work in sustainability, decarbonization strategies, and the development of energy-efficient solutions.
What you can learn from Stanley E. Porter:
Following Stanley E. Porter helps you access a wealth of knowledge on navigating the complexities of the energy transition and implementing smart energy management strategies. His expertise in restructuring, mergers, and operations optimization, coupled with a keen focus on sustainable and efficient energy solutions, offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the ER&I sectors. Porter's leadership and strategic vision provide invaluable insights for professionals looking to drive change and foster sustainability in their operations, making him a key thought leader in the energy and industrial sectors.
18. Zhanna Golodryga
Business website: Phillips 66
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Insights into renewable fuels, batteries, hydrogen, carbon capture, and ESG leadership.
Zhanna Golodryga is at the forefront of Phillips 66's Emerging Energy and Sustainability organizations, leveraging over three decades of industry experience to address evolving global energy demands. Leading a team of innovators, Golodryga is deeply involved in developing and commercializing renewable fuels, batteries, hydrogen, and carbon capture technologies—key components of Phillips 66's Emerging Energy strategy.
Additionally, her role encompasses ESG leadership, guiding the company towards a sustainable, lower-carbon future. Her positions as a board member at Regions Financial Corp. and the Memorial Hermann Foundation, along with her chairmanship at the Aspen Technology Executive Advisory Board, underscore her influence and commitment to the energy sector.
What you can learn from Zhanna Golodryga:
Following Zhanna Golodryga gives you a unique perspective on how traditional energy companies are transitioning towards more sustainable practices and technologies. Her insights can provide valuable lessons on integrating renewable energy solutions into existing business models and the importance of ESG considerations in shaping the future of energy companies. Her strategic approach to embracing the energy future through innovation and sustainability initiatives can serve as a blueprint for professionals looking to navigate the renewable energy landscape effectively.
19. Christina Verchere
Business website: OMV Petrom
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Insights into leadership and strategy in the integrated energy sector.
Christina Verchere is the Chief Executive Officer and President of the Executive Board of OMV Petrom, a role she has held since 2018. Her career trajectory includes significant contributions to the energy industry, primarily at BP, where she served in key positions such as Regional President of Asia Pacific and President and CEO of BP Canada Energy Group.
OMV Petrom, under Verchere's leadership, stands as the largest integrated energy company in South-Eastern Europe. The company operates across the entire energy value chain, encompassing exploration and production of oil and gas, refining, fuel distribution, power generation, and gas and power marketing. It plays a pivotal role in providing the energy necessary for modern life, supplying fuels for mobility and energy for light and heat.
What you can learn from Christina Verchere:
Verchere's leadership and strategic acumen in the energy sector make her a notable figure to follow. Her career journey from BP to OMV Petrom provides valuable insights into the dynamics of integrated energy companies and the strategies needed to navigate this complex industry. With a Master's degree in Economics Science from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland, her expertise in economics adds depth to her leadership in the energy sector.
20. Joseph Scalise
Business website: Bain & Company
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Strategic insights into the transformation and modernization of the energy and natural resources sector.
Joseph Scalise is the driving force behind Bain & Company's Global Energy & Natural Resources practice, bringing over two decades of experience to his role. Based in San Francisco, Scalise has an extensive background in the utilities sector, having previously led Bain's Global and Americas Utilities & Renewables practice.
His expertise spans industry transformation, cost and performance optimization, digital innovation, and mergers and acquisitions. Scalise's work focuses on adapting the energy sector to changing market conditions, including the challenges of flat or declining loads and the complexities of regulatory changes. He is a key figure in guiding some of the largest investor-owned utilities in the Americas toward competitive excellence and sustainable practices.
What you can learn from Joseph Scalise:
Joseph Scalise takes a deep dive into the evolving landscape of the energy and natural resources industry. His insights into industry transformation highlight the need for strategic adaptation to regulatory changes and market dynamics. Scalise's emphasis on cost discipline, competitive footing, and digital scalability provides actionable strategies for businesses looking to thrive in the sector. His thought leadership on mergers and acquisitions sheds light on the strategic considerations necessary for successful industry consolidation and integration. For professionals in the energy sector, Scalise's guidance is invaluable for navigating the complexities of modern energy challenges and seizing opportunities in a rapidly changing environment.
Wrapping Up: How to Leverage These Insights
In this article, we've introduced you to a diverse group of thought leaders in renewable energy, sustainability, and environmental policy. Each of these experts brings a unique perspective and a wealth of experience to their respective domains.
From Rebecca Kujawa's leadership in renewable energy at NextEra Energy Resources to Wasundara Doradeniya's commitment to climate mitigation through policy development, these thought leaders are at the forefront of shaping a more sustainable and eco-conscious future.
If you want to leverage the insights from these thought leaders, we recommend a multi-faceted approach:
Stay Informed: Follow these thought leaders on their respective platforms and engage with their content. Actively participating in the conversations they initiate can provide you with up-to-date knowledge and a deeper understanding of the latest developments in renewable energy, sustainability, and environmental policy.
Collaborate: Don't hesitate to contact these experts for collaboration opportunities or seek their advice on specific projects. Building professional relationships with individuals who share your passion for sustainability can lead to valuable partnerships and knowledge exchange.
Continuous Learning: Stay committed to continuous learning and professional development. Consider enrolling in courses, attending webinars, or joining industry associations related to renewable energy and sustainability. The insights from these thought leaders can serve as a foundation for further exploration and specialization in your field.
So, following and engaging with these thought leaders keeps you informed about the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in the ever-evolving landscape of renewable energy and sustainability.
Your commitment to sustainability and your willingness to learn from these experts demonstrate your dedication to making a positive impact on the environment and the world as a whole.
Keep up the excellent work, and together, we can drive positive change for a more sustainable future.
