This week, women in Solar+ Europe give a voice to Judy de Breuil, Business Development & Key Account Manager at the Wegeeuropa of Germany. She explains how values such as authenticity and honesty helped her in her journey in the renewable energy sector and emphasizes the importance of cooperation in framing leadership and collective success. “It’s not about creating enemies. It’s about working together,” she says.
The Solar Plus Industries offer a unique and powerful opportunity to build really inclusive, resilient teams. The sector is smaller than one would expect, it moves quickly and works in cycles. To thrive in such an environment, fairness, diversity and inclusion are not only ideals – they are supplies. Without them, the industry cannot assume the scale or pace of its challenges. That is why I believe that our industries offer a fantastic opportunity to build strong ties, adjust and grow in ways that everyone benefits.
During my own journey in this sector, a stereotype about female leadership has constantly followed me: that women must meet unwritten rules, and if we don’t, we are difficult to label. I have never really been able to fit that fungus. Although I have learned to adjust where necessary, I refuse to compromise my character. Authenticity is not a strategy for me – it is a necessity. It is how I lead, how I connect and how I am firm in my values. I have discovered that even if some people do not accept my leadership style, there are always allies who do. That’s enough for me.
Authenticity is closely linked to a different value that I have dear: honesty. I find it almost impossible to separate the two. The vulnerability, on the other hand, took longer to hug. It is often considered for weakness, and in some environments it feels risky. But over time, with the right people around me, I learned to open me up. Showing vulnerability has strengthened relationships and enabled others to step into their own strengths. Together we create stronger, resilient teams. When people bring their own themselves to the table – flaws, strengths, doubts and trust – we create more room for collective success.
One of the most personal collection restaurants I have had in recent years came from a painful memory. I once received a comment about my clothing that has left a permanent brand. It chased me. During a discussion, someone shared a technique to visit such moments and to forgive themselves. I tried – and it worked. That simple act of self -compassion enabled me to finally let go and to move forward. Sometimes growth is not only due to the leading of others, but healed from ourselves.
Looking ahead, supporting the next generation of women requires a shift in how we completely frame leadership. We have made progress and that momentum is important. But it’s not about building a new mold, it’s about every mold. Every person has unique strengths. We must stop encouraging people to ‘fit in’ and to celebrate individuality instead. And it is important that we have to build alliances in gender, age and background. It’s not about creating enemies. It’s about working together.
Men play a key role in this trip. Sometimes I wonder why we even have to define roles – it should be of course. But if that’s the game, let’s call it: men are half the population and they must be part of the solution. Let us share our experiences more openly with them and also recognize the pressure with which they are confronted. Equity is not about one side – it’s about balance, inclusion and empathy.
If I recently rediscover one super power, it is the possibility to make contact with people in a short time. I plan to use it often, because real connection is the basis of change.
Judy De Breuil has been working on sale for more than 10 years and has been leading more than five teams. With a solid background when managing customers and driving results, she has always enjoyed the fast, targeted nature of the sale. Looking for a change in industry but who wanted to stay in a role where she could use her skills, Judy made the switch to the renewable energy sources sector. She now works in the DCC PLC division, where it supports the European market for the Wewes brand, and helps them to promote and sell products and services focused on energy solutions.
Interested in becoming a member Judy de Breuil And other leaders and experts in industry at women in Solar+ Europe? More information: www.wiseu.network
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