Monica Collings OBE: The Power of Authentic Leadership
Monica Collings OBE is an award-winning influential leader. She was formerly Chief Executive at So Energy and was at the time, the only female leading a domestic energy supplier. She now has a portfolio Non-Executive Director spanning energy and utilities, environmental and risk management services and is currently the Chair of POWERful Women.
“Over the course of my career, I have often found myself in male dominated environments where women were not the norm... Authentic leadership — being unapologetically yourself — is not only more sustainable but also more impactful.”
The Power of Authenticity
High-pressure situations often tempt leaders to “fit in” or adopt shortcuts. While efficiency matters, sacrificing authenticity can lead to stress, burnout, and miscommunication. Being authentic in your leadership is a superpower...
Authenticity and Motivation
Being consistent with your values and developing a consistent leadership style builds trust with your team...
Creating Your Niche and Exploring Opportunities
Stepping into areas where you have less direct experience can feel risky. The key is curiosity...
The Responsibility of Visibility
Being visible as a woman in leadership matters. Young professionals, particularly women, often self-select out of industries...
Key Takeaways
- Find your authentic voice – credibility comes from being yourself.
- Be bold and brave – if you believe in yourself, others will too.
- Be curious – about understanding what motivates you or others.
- Show up visibly – your presence inspires others and changes culture.
In high-stakes leadership, success is not about fitting in – it’s about shaping the space around you, influencing others, and showing that authentic leadership is both powerful and sustainable.