What makes a good Net Zero leader in 2023? Purpose vs Profit

Is it key that you are a passionate advocate who bleeds Green? That you are hailed as a thought leader in the space? Or is it better that you are fundamentally exceptional at business and build high performing companies?

I recently read the article below from Forbes discussing the need for more sustainable leadership. The broader point focusses on leaders from any sector being role models, reducing carbon footprints and investing into sustainable businesses. Whilst I do not fundamentally disagree it did make me wonder if this is still a too idealistic view point.

I have been recruiting in the sector since 2010 and the changes have been mind blowing.

Yet I cannot help but feel this has been down to the Profit third of the 3 Ps of Sustainability. In 2010 we were seeing the shoots of the “Green Rush” that was to come but I still feel a lot of the workforce were still in the sector largely due to a passion for sustainability. Key leaders in the UK were the likes of Dale Vince and Jeremy Leggett – successful business leaders but fundamentally driven primarily by purpose.

This has changed. In 2023, whilst a large number of leaders will still be driven by People and Planet, there are an equally large number contributing significantly via a commitment to Profit. ?Subsidies, investment, reduced manufacturing costs allied to soaring energy costs have created the perfect storm leading to a rapidly expanding Green economy.

One of my good friends recently moved over from the “dark side” of Oil & Gas to Offshore Wind – he drives a turbo charged petrol engine car (I am working on converting him to EVs), suffice to say he didn’t make the move for altruistic reasons.

My broader point is obviously we need leaders that embody both Purpose and Planet. But if we are to achieve Net Zero goals as a planet, it is ok if some leaders are just very very good at making money. We all benefit from this.