This week, women in Solar+ Europe give a voice to Christelle Mirailles, Business Development & Strategy at French Equans Solar & Storage. She says that women must embrace their uniqueness instead of conforming to traditional leadership forms. “We must defend authenticity and individuality, consider differences as strengths instead of obligations,” she says.
I believe that the solar-plus industries offer an extraordinary opportunity to cultivate fairness, diversity and inclusion. As active participants in the energy transition, we are uniquely positioned to adapt to a generation that prioritizes humanity, transparency and authenticity. The growth of this industry is a central opportunity to redefine leadership and to attract talent that deeply appreciates inclusive, fair and transparent work environments.
During my career I often encountered the stereotype that women are insufficiently assertive leaders. This perception often stems from a fundamental misunderstanding of cooperation and inclusive leadership styles. I have consistently given a priority to a team -oriented approach, in which everyone is involved in the decision -making process and the promotion of shared responsibility. Although some people interpret this as a lack of assertiveness or ambition, I see it as the embodiment of genuine leadership – promoting others and ensuring that each team member feels appreciated and heard. By continuously emphasizing the collective successes that we achieve through collaboration, I have shown that leadership is not about dominance, but about leading the group to common goals.
Authenticity and vulnerability are essential facets of my leadership philosophy. Working in a global business equans with 90,000 employees, I have learned that transparency is crucial. I actively share our goals, challenges and progress, building trust and coordination within the team. Trust is in fact the cornerstone of effective leadership. By publicly admitting when I don’t have all the answers, I create a supporting atmosphere in which colleagues feel encouraged to contribute their expertise, generate innovation and strengthen team dynamics. Collaboration, fueled by authenticity, enables us to use our collective intelligence and achieve exceptional results.
An insight that was shared during a recent discussion at a Wisu network meeting that resonated deeply with me – a woman shared her experience in leaving a company whose values are contrary to hers, and encouraged her own company. Her story had deeply influence on me and underlined the courage needed to stay true to the core values. This strengthened my conviction that authenticity in leadership is not only beneficial but essential.
Thinking about my experiences, I have identified a super power in myself: the power derived from cooperation leadership. Despite persistent stereotypes, being team -oriented is a powerful leadership approach. Recognizing this power has my trust and dedication to strengthen and lead others to collective success.
Supporting the next generation of female leaders is of the utmost importance, and we must encourage them to embrace their uniqueness instead of conforming to traditional leadership forms. It is not necessary to simulate male counterparts or to fit outdated stereotypes. Instead, we must defend authenticity and individuality and consider differences as strengths instead of obligations. Participation in initiatives such as “The Girls Training, Education the World” strengthened my belief in the transforming power of mentoring and education, crucial for the worldwide empowerment of young women.
Christelle Mirailles is a dedicated leader who is known for her collaboration and authentic approach. At the age of 44, she successfully balances her role as mother of three and a professional with international experience, who lived in three different countries. After graduating as an engineer in France, she started in the automotive sector and then moved to the construction, nuclear and renewable energy industry, specializing in business development. Christelle strongly believes in teamwork and actively creates environments where everyone feels appreciated and involved. Passionate by sustainability, she proudly contributes to the global energy transition at Equans Solar & Storage. Christelle loves music, sports and mountain hiking outside of work. She is also actively involved in community associations, driven by her dedication to solidarity and social responsibility.
Interested in becoming a member Christelle Mirailles And other leaders and experts in industry at women in Solar+ Europe? More information: www.wiseu.network
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