
Good Energy tariff
Help power a cleaner, greener future for everyone with a renewable energy tariff from Good Energy.
Home » Women powering a renewables pioneer
This article first appeared in our International Women’s Day issue of My Green Pod Magazine, published 04 March. Click here to subscribe to our digital edition and get each issue delivered straight to your inbox
Energy is a vital resource we all use, and the industry should be representative of the broad spectrum of people who depend on it. But it isn’t.
In fact, the sector is woefully gender imbalanced; according to the International Energy Agency (IEA), on average 76% fewer women than men work in the energy industry.
Yet many women play an important part in the energy transition; below are three of the women who are helping to power the shift to clean energy in their roles with Good Energy, a My Green Pod Hero and renewable energy pioneer.
Their unique career journeys reveal the many skills required for the shift to clean power, and the different paths to exciting and rewarding careers in this male-dominated sector.
READER OFFER
My Green Pod readers can get £250 off a heat pump or solar installation from Good Energy. Use the discount code MYGP2526 when you click here.
From forensic science to energy optimisation
Gemma Eagle-Bruce has a vital technical role at Good Energy.
As the Head of Energy Optimisation, she oversees the team responsible for ensuring the power produced by the company’s renewable generators is matched with what its customers use.
What Gemma doesn’t know about energy probably isn’t worth knowing – yet she didn’t initially envision a career in the energy industry.
With a background in chemistry and forensic analysis, Gemma originally aimed to become a forensic scientist.
However, a temporary job as a quoting analyst at a large electricity generation company sparked her interest in the energy sector.
‘I found the industry fascinating, with so much to learn’, Gemma recalls.
Gemma’s journey took her onward to roles as a trader and optimiser at two different energy suppliers, where she gained experience and seniority.
Despite her success, Gemma struggled with imposter syndrome, doubting her ability to manage different teams.
It was through the Women’s Utility Network (WUN) mentoring programme that she gained the confidence to apply for her current role.
From molecular biology to finance
Like Gemma, Victoria Loubeau had her sights set on a career in science long before she entered the energy industry, with aspirations of curing diseases through studying molecular biology.
However, the reality of lab work led Victoria to pivot to accountancy.
‘It’s a typical accountant’s opening story – I wasn’t sure what to do’, Victoria admits.
Studying for an accounting qualification while working allowed her to explore various business roles.
Victoria worked in consultancies, energy and the UKRI before her career took her to Good Energy.
Each role was an adventure, driven by her curiosity and a network of friends and colleagues.
In her position as Head of Services Finance at Good Energy, Victoria enjoys ‘getting under the bonnet of how we make profit, balanced with caring for our customers and investing in our people.’
Victoria’s journey has allowed her to balance career, family, health and caring. She emphasises the importance of taking chances, being oneself and finding a supportive team.
‘Most of my highlights have been when I said yes to something following a gut reaction’, she reflects.
Perseverance and passion in human resources
Lisa Aldridge discovered her passion for human resources during her undergraduate degree in psychology.
Breaking into the industry without prior experience was a challenge, but perseverance paid off.
Lisa’s early career involved roles in aerospace and healthcare companies, where she gained a broad range of HR experience.
‘For me, having all the right qualifications and experience meant I would never be inhibited’, Lisa explains.
Lisa’s journey led her to a major global pharmaceutical company, where she handled acquisitions, divestitures and engagement across EMEA.
Despite a long commute, the experience was invaluable.
At Good Energy, Lisa oversees the company’s people team, helping to create an internal culture that attracts and retains great talent – reflected in the company’s ‘World Class Employer’ rating by Best Companies.
As Head of People Lisa has thrived – supported by her manager and her own tenacity.
Reflecting on her journey, she emphasises the importance of self-driven growth and finding a company aligned with one’s values.
‘My journey was self-driven, particularly in the early stages of my career. Never sitting still and constantly hungry for development and self-growth’, she notes.
Gemma, Lisa and Victoria’s stories highlight several common themes which frequently come up for women working in a sector where they are under represented, as they are in energy.
Confidence, often bolstered by mentorship and self-reflection, plays a crucial role in overcoming imposter syndrome and seizing new opportunities.
Perseverance and a willingness to take on diverse roles and challenges are essential for growth and success.
Having a supportive network, whether through mentors, managers or colleagues, is also invaluable.
These women demonstrate the many career paths in the energy transition.
As they continue to lead, they pave the way for others to make their mark in the industry – so one day soon it should better reflect the society it serves.
Help power a cleaner, greener future for everyone with a renewable energy tariff from Good Energy.
Reduce your bills and make your home more energy independent with solar panels and a battery from Good Energy Solar.
Heat your home using renewables with a bespoke heat pump system designed for your home.
Good Energy’s Ian McKee reflects on 25 years of pioneering renewable energy.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Weekly ethical news, offers, comps and a free digital mag (quarterly) – what’s not to love?