As sustainability becomes prominent, demand for green leadership skills rises

Climate change is influencing the rate of development of leadership roles in the green industry. The rising demand for renewable energy talent, especially at the senior level, is increasing considerably. R&D and technology professionals in battery and storage systems, digitalisation in renewables, and data analytics are high-demand markets. Businesses are carefully considering the effects of climate change while developing their strategies. As more firms focus on a green future, how is the role of the future leader transforming?

Climate change and sustainability have evolved into top priorities for business leaders worldwide. Climate change has influenced discussions and strategies concerning the energy transition and the movement towards a green future. Environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) processes are now critical skills for today’s leaders. Sustainability positions are, as a result, evolving rapidly. 

Chief sustainability officers, ESG officers, CSR leaders and experts in sustainable supply chain and operations must adapt to cultural change, create long-term solutions and ensure the organisation’s sustainability. Added to the rising demand for renewables, electric vehicles (EVs), green finance and sustainable management, industry analysts anticipate a considerable rise in demand for sustainable leadership throughout 2024.

At the core of the green industry are several significant markets – the major power producers (solar, wind, biomass and hydro), the EV manufacturers, battery storage systems, electrolyser manufacturing and green hydrogen. At the leadership level, businesses are actively seeking renewable energy talent, especially at the senior level. Candidates with a strong skillset in EPC, business development, engineering and design, and expertise in renewable energy policies are in increasing demand. These leadership roles require a strong understanding of the renewables market, knowledge of financial models, project management and commissioning.

The requirements for green leadership roles vary between industries. Whether it’s renewable energy in utilities, supply chain sustainability or ESG integration in finance, green leaders must adapt to the differing challenges while maintaining a focus on sustainability. This approach ensures that a business remains agile, focusing on environmental and social responsibility while meeting the demands of industry and stakeholders.

Other industry leaders believe there is a rising demand for R&D and technology leaders in battery and storage, material sciences, with a chemistry background. Another market gaining momentum is the digitalisation of the renewables industry. Solar and wind are becoming more connected, and data and analytics are more common and vital in this market. 

Senior leaders in technology, cloud platforms, data science and security will be in higher demand as more leadership roles develop within the industry. Green hydrogen and ammonia production will likely be a significant market in the next few years. These sectors will need senior leaders in manufacturing, project management, supply chain and professionals in material sciences and chemical processes.

According to industry experts, success and progress in these positions will depend on a combination of sustainability knowledge, strategic thinking, data expertise, innovation, agility and communication skills. Furthermore, supply chain management skills, an understanding of the circular economy and strong stakeholder management are critical for driving sustainability goals.

One of the core challenges for the future is the availability of talent with the necessary experience in some specific areas, like solar manufacturing, R&D in battery systems and electrolyser manufacturing.