Suzanne Ogle, the President and CEO of the Southern Gas Association, discusses the increasing role of women in the energy industry. She reflects on her own career journey in the natural gas sector since 1992 and highlights the significant contributions women are making in leadership positions across the industry. As the focus shifts towards sustainable practices and meeting the demand for affordable and reliable energy, women are taking on more influential roles, managing the supply chain, and delivering energy to homes.
Despite the progress, data from an S&P Global Commodity Insights analysis shows that women still hold a smaller percentage of C-suite positions, executive roles, and board positions in power and utilities companies in the US and Canada. As International Women’s Day approaches, themed “Inspire Inclusion,” Ogle emphasizes the importance of women’s leadership for all companies and provides three tips for rising women leaders to enhance their chances of reaching the top positions in the industry.
Ogle believes that inclusion matters in today’s rapidly changing business environment. CEOs face numerous challenges, and the ability to prioritize initiatives for sustainable competitive advantage is crucial. Inclusion allows for diverse perspectives and insights, helping businesses navigate change and reinvention effectively. Women leaders bring value to the executive team by demonstrating key traits such as confidence, decisiveness, and trust, as they have had to advocate for themselves in a male-dominated environment and develop their voice over their career journey.
Ogle shares her own experiences of advocating for herself and embracing strategic risks to advance in her career, emphasizing the importance of owning one’s accomplishments and building credibility in the workplace. Networking is also essential for women leaders to create opportunities, as relationships can open doors for future growth and success. By creating a climate of opportunity and empowering others, rising women leaders can support each other and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse industry.
In conclusion, Ogle encourages women in leadership to speak up, share their achievements, and build strong networks to advance in their careers. By leveraging their unique perspectives and communication skills, women can enhance their influence, earn trust, and contribute to the growth and evolution of the energy industry. In a rapidly changing business landscape, the leadership of women is essential for driving innovation, promoting sustainability, and ensuring the industry’s continued success.
