Chamber kickstarts Inspiring Women in Business programme with green jobs event
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The Chamber has launched its 2025 Inspiring Women in Business programme with an event focused on opportunities for women in the green energy sector.
The Women in Green Jobs event brought together green sector professionals to foster collaboration and empower a more diverse workforce.
Marianne O’Sullivan, policy manager at the Chamber, said: “The North East is witnessing rapid growth in green jobs across multiple sectors. From renewable energy to environmental consultancy, the region is at the forefront of the UK’s transition to a greener economy.”
She added: “The sustainability sector holds immense potential for empowering women and driving innovation in the region, and it is essential that women are able to take advantage of these opportunities. Together, we can create a stronger, fairer North East.”
Heidi Mottram, CEO of event sponsor Northumbrian Water Group (NWG) and chair of Net Zero North East England, emphasised the importance of inclusivity in the green sector.
She said: “We’re all aware that we’re in a massive transition towards sustainability. This shift is creating opportunities that are better suited for women and reliant on skills such as innovation, ingenuity and communication. A more diverse workforce leads to better ideas and greater innovation.”
Heidi also highlighted the region’s achievements in green energy and the importance of events such as Women in Green Jobs in accelerating progress for future generations.
She said: “This event is about inspiring people, creating that network and thinking about things in a different way. I’m delighted to sponsor today’s event.”
A panel discussion was hosted by Monisha Gower, asset director at NWG. Monisha highlighted NWG’s significant contributions to environmental improvements and job creation.
She said: “The environment is at the heart of what we do. We are investing £3.6 billion in our assets, with £1.7 billion allocated to environmental improvements. This investment supports 3,000 jobs in the water supply chain, with an additional 250 roles at Northumbrian Water.
“Grassroots talent development and workforce diversity are essential for driving this forward.”
The panel brought together six speakers from various sectors: Zoe Frogbrook, head of environment and sustainability, NWG; Rachel Leech, sustainability officer, Gateshead College; Maggie White, technical specialist, Esh-Stantec; Steven Hugill, editor-in-chief, NET; Vyvyan Evans, senior environmental consultant, Aqua Consultants; Harriet Beattie, senior co-ordinator operations and maintenance, Equinor.
The panel discussed essential skills for thriving in green jobs and the importance of resilience and adaptability in navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry.
Harriet said: “Collaboration and teamwork are so important. Working in renewable energy, there’s a lot of change all the time, so being open to other points of view is essential.”
Rachel agreed, adding: “Transferable skills and relationship building are so important. Critical thinking is also key in providing a more holistic solution.”
Panel members shared their experiences and advice for women entering or transitioning into green jobs.
Harriet highlighted the value of transferable skills, urging attendees to “stand your ground” when moving into the green sector.
Maggie said: “Communication and making data relatable and digestible is important. No matter what subject area you’re in, if you’re interested in the green sector look for those opportunities. Keep an open mind and keep key communication skills going.”
She added: “The legacy we’re potentially going to leave behind is my inspiration. Breaking tasks down, digging deep and working with likeminded people can help you achieve your goals.”
Discussions also touched on diverse opportunities and regional investments in green jobs. Steven Hugill pointed to the North East’s industrial heritage and strategic strengths, from offshore wind farms in Blyth to electrification projects in Sunderland.
“Collaboration between industry, education and local authorities is key to ensuring we maximise these opportunities,” said Steven, who oversees NET’s N magazine and Bdaily website.
Vyvyan said: “There are a lot of new, interesting jobs coming up on cusp sectors, where we are bringing together different organisations, different partners and joining topics together, to take a more holistic systems approach. There are opportunities for green finance and benefit trading platforms for example Nutrient Trading and Biodiversity Net Gain credits. Skills here are going to be in demand, and a great opportunity for the North East.
“Environmental charities are also doing incredible amounts of work around sustainability, so how the public and private sectors engage with them will be another great opportunity.”
Zoe added that energy efficient households is going to be a key area, as well as waste management and recycling. She said: “We are all responsible for own household waste but much more needs to be done in that space. Behavioural science needs to be imbedded in what we do around sustainability.”
The panel also explored how the North East can learn from national initiatives. Examples included Scotland’s transition strategies for oil and gas workers, Greater Manchester’s advancements in green finance, and Cornwall’s Eden Project, which integrates sustainability into every aspect of its operations.
The Women in Green Jobs event, which was sponsored by Northumbrian Water Group, took place on 22 January at The Greenhouse Business Centre in the Greencroft Industrial Park.
The Chamber’s Inspiring Women in Business programme is a series of events designed to empower and support women in the region’s business community. By fostering connections, providing resources and showcasing role models, the programme aims to create a stronger, fairer North East.