Insights

Many senior executives contemplate “going plural” at some point in their careers — moving from hands-on operational leadership into portfolio work as a non-executive director (NED), chair, or advisor.

But what does it take to do that successfully? What’s the right time, and how do you make the leap from executive to board-level contributor — without losing your edge or sense of purpose?

That’s exactly the journey Monica Collings has taken — from CEO of Vattenfall UK and So Energy, to non-executive chair, advisor, mentor, and one of the cleantech industry’s most respected voices on inclusive leadership, resilience, and strategic culture-building.

I've known Monica for some time and I was delighted to sit down with her recently on the Leaders in Cleantech podcast, where we explored her shift to a plural career, the lessons she brought from the frontline of the energy crisis, and the impact a good board can have when done right. You can listen to the full episode here — but here are some takeaways for anyone considering a path to the boardroom.

🎯 It Starts with Values – Not Just CVs

“I love work,” Monica told me. “But I wanted to do it differently — to help more organisations benefit from my experience, and to have more time for family, while still doing meaningful, fulfilling work.”

That transition wasn’t a retreat — it was a reframing. Monica’s career pivot wasn’t about “slowing down” after years in the hot seat. Instead, she built a portfolio aligned with her values: growth-focused businesses in the energy transition, sustainable infrastructure, and companies that value purpose alongside profit.

That purpose-led clarity is crucial for anyone thinking of becoming a NED or Chair. Board work can look glamorous from the outside, but it requires commitment, discretion, and a willingness to advise without operating. You need to bring insight — and leave your ego at the door.

🛠 What Can You Bring to the Table?

One of the most common questions I hear from experienced professionals is: What qualifies me for a board role?

Monica’s answer is refreshingly direct. “It’s not just about financials. It’s about pattern recognition. I’ve been in that CEO chair. I know what’s coming before it hits. I know how lonely it can be, and I can help.”

Her operational experience — leading teams through the energy crisis, overseeing mergers, scaling customer-centric businesses — now makes her a sought-after board member. But she doesn’t just rely on her résumé. She stays close to the business. She visits sites. She talks to frontline staff. “I’m not a NED who just turns up for the biscuits,” she laughs.

If you’re a would-be NED or Chair, ask yourself:

• Have I led teams through complexity?
• Can I bring a different lens to the boardroom?
• Do I know what not to do, as much as what to do?

Often, what early-stage companies need most is not abstract strategy — but seasoned judgement, cultural wisdom, and the ability to challenge with empathy.

🤝 Why Founders and Boards Need Each Other

Many founders think of boards as a necessary evil. In truth, a well-structured board is a superpower. And for CEOs, especially first-time or scaling leaders, a trusted Chair can be a lifeline.

As Monica said: “The best boards reflect the real problems the company is facing. That might be performance, or succession, or culture. Vanity projects don’t belong at the board table.”

And while boardrooms can (and should) challenge, they also provide support. “I see my role as helping the CEO see around corners — and asking the questions others might avoid.”

Her advice to board candidates? Bring your whole self — but understand the role. “It’s not your job to run the business. It’s your job to make sure the business can be run well.”

🧭 Monica’s Latest Move — And How We Helped

At Hyperion Executive Search, we’ve been privileged to place exceptional board talent across Europe’s cleantech sector — including placing Monica as the Chair of Plug-N-Go, a high-growth business accelerating the roll-out of EV charging infrastructure.

Her appointment brings together her operational depth, her passion for the energy transition, and her boardroom wisdom — a powerful mix in any growth-stage company.

🚀 Thinking of Making the Leap?

If you're a senior executive contemplating a transition into plural roles — or an investor or founder seeking board-level firepower — there's never been a better time.

The cleantech sector needs wise, inclusive, operationally-minded leaders who can guide companies through uncertainty and opportunity alike.

Take a leaf from Monica’s book: be intentional, be curious, and remember — your second career might just be your most impactful yet.

🎧 Listen to Monica’s full Leaders in Cleantech episode here: leadersincleantech.com