This week, women in Solar+ Europe give a voice to Ksenia Dray, global sun leader in France in Res. She says that over the years she witnessed a considerable shift in gender inclusion in the industry of renewable energy. “I also see a new wave of targeted professionals who enter the sector, and many of them have been drawn to women by the possibility of making a difference,” she says.
The Solar Plus Industries offer a unique environment for stimulating gender diversity and inclusion. Unlike traditional sectors such as oil and gas or nuclear, this industry is still relatively young and less bound by old structures. It requires agility, adaptability and cooperation thinking, properties that often embody women and that are vital for the success of the energy transition.
For me, a member of this sector was not just a career choice; It was a way to make a meaningful impact. Working in renewable energy sources means contributing to a sustainable future, and that deeper sense of goal is something that many women are looking for in their professional lives.
I started my career in the photovoltaic construction on a global scale, with roles as a purchasing manager and later purchasing director within an EPC company, the management of international supply chains and project implementation. Navigating on a building environment dominated by men brought up his challenges. I was often confronted with skepticism, especially from subcontractors. Being the only woman at the table during the negotiations was not easy. But I have learned that demonstrating deep knowledge, showing trust and speaking the language of your counterpart can break down barriers. As soon as people recognize your expertise, respect follows the tendency to follow.
Over the years I have witnessed a significant shift in gender inclusion throughout the industry. More women are now in important leadership roles, including CEOs in large solar and wind companies. Many of these women came into the field in the beginning, built strong professional networks and consistently demonstrated their value, in particular in project development, marketing and finance. I also see a new wave of targeted professionals who enter the sector, and many of them have been pulled by the opportunity to make a difference.
Nevertheless, navigating bias has not always been easy. While I improved in my career, I often had to prove myself repeatedly. I leaned for the qualities that are sometimes overlooked: empathy, resilience, creativity and a target -controlled mindset. I chose not to confront Bias with confrontation, but with calm trust and clarity. This balanced approach enabled me to break down resistance and build trust. In the course of time, delivering results and showing deep industrial knowledge helped me to build the credibility that I needed to succeed and to grow in this environment.
Today, as a senior leader, I see it as my responsibility to promote an inclusive culture within my organization. I believe in equal opportunities, regardless of gender, race or background. As a manager I have always focused on fairness, to support employees based on their skills and motivation. Being part of RES feels like a natural fit, a company that shares these values and actively works to create an inclusive environment. Women at RES Hold senior, strategic roles and the company has set up clear initiatives to ensure that all employees feel supported and respected.
Although progress has been made, important challenges remain in our industries, especially at an executive level. Pregnancy and family responsibilities still influence the career development of women disproportionately. Many are forced to choose between professional progress and maintain a family life, especially when companies do not lack sufficient support systems. But I believe that with the right culture, one that embraces flexibility and promotes the balance between work and private life, women can thrive in leadership without having to compromise.
I have experienced the benefits of various leadership teams firsthand. They are often more balanced, innovative and better at dealing with risks. Men and women bring various strengths to the table, and when those perspectives are combined, the outcome is always stronger. In purchasing I witnessed how mixed sex teams can lead to smarter negotiations and more strategic business decisions.
For the young women who enter this industry today, my advice is simple: don’t underestimate yourself. I have seen so many talented women hesitating to promote themselves, waiting for them to meet every requirement before they stepped forward. In the meantime, their male colleagues go for it earlier, even with fewer qualifications. Self -confidence is crucial. Own your value, speak and don’t be afraid to bring yourself to the market. It’s not just about being able, it’s about being seen. And that visibility is the key to leadership and long -term success.
Ksenia Dray is a senior leader in the renewable energy sector, with more than 14 years of international experience throughout Europe, North -America and Latin -America. Her expertise includes the supply chain in the field of solar project on Utility scale to commercial strategy and implementation. She has successfully led worldwide teams and has managed a complex project delivery in EPC and IPP environments, which brings a sharp commercial lens for contract negotiations, supply chain optimization and market expansion. Ksenia started her career in photovoltaic construction and went to executive positions, including purchasing director and now global sun leader at RES, where she sends the global solar strategy and delivery. She has an MBA in Executive Finance and a master’s degree in international company. In addition to its operational leadership, Ksenia is a recognized voice in the industry, which contributes to Thought leadership in the field of solar and global market trends.
Interested in becoming a member Ksenia Dray And other leaders and experts in industry at women in Solar+ Europe? More information: www.wiseu.network
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