The Vital Role of Growth-Stage Leaders in Clean Tech: Challenges, Opportunities, and Attraction Strategies

As the global economy accelerates its transition to sustainability, the clean tech sector is emerging as a key driver of innovation and growth.

Companies in this space are facing unprecedented opportunities, but they also require the right leadership to navigate the complexities of scaling a business, commercialising technology, and competing in a rapidly evolving market. This is where growth-stage business leaders come in—professionals who are experienced in taking companies from promising innovation to commercial success.

The task of attracting these leaders, however, is far from simple.

As executive search specialists, Odgers Berndtson understands the nuances of identifying and securing talent who are capable of thriving in the dynamic and often unpredictable clean tech sector.

In this article, we covering the following components of growth-stage leaders in clean tech:

1. The importance of growth-stage leadership
2. Where to find these leaders
3. The 3 main challenges in attracting growth-stage leaders
4. The 3 key opportunities for growth-stage leaders in clean tech

1. The Importance of Growth-Stage Leadership in Clean Tech

Clean tech companies, particularly those in their growth phase, face a unique set of challenges that demand specialised leadership. These leaders must:

Scale operations efficiently

Growth-stage leaders ensure that companies can transition from niche players to mass-market competitors, navigating supply chain expansion and operational complexities.

Commercialise innovation

It’s not enough to have cutting-edge technology; a successful leader will translate innovation into scalable, market-ready solutions that meet the demands of an increasingly environmentally conscious market.

Manage regulatory landscapes

The clean tech sector is highly regulated, requiring leaders who can anticipate and manage compliance issues, government policies, and global standards.

Drive partnerships and investments

Clean tech companies often rely on strategic partnerships, joint ventures, and external investment. A growth-stage leader must be adept at securing these relationships to drive long-term success.

These are not skills that can be easily found within the sector alone. At Odgers Berndtson, we have seen the value of recruiting leadership from adjacent industries—those who bring new perspectives and critical experience to clean tech organisations at this crucial juncture.

2. Where Do These Leaders Come From?

Growth-stage leaders in clean tech come from a range of industries, each providing a unique set of skills that can be adapted to the clean tech market. These sectors include:

Technology

The rapid growth and scalability inherent to the tech sector offer invaluable experience for clean tech leaders. Executives from tech companies bring an agile mindset, deep knowledge of digital infrastructures, and the ability to scale rapidly.

Energy and Utilities

Many leaders from traditional energy sectors (including oil and gas) possess the operational expertise and regulatory knowledge required to manage large-scale infrastructure and complex, capital-intensive projects. As clean tech moves into mainstream energy markets, this experience becomes highly valuable.

Life Sciences

Executives from life sciences, especially in biotech and pharmaceuticals, are accustomed to taking innovative technologies from research and development to market, all while navigating stringent regulations. These leaders often excel at scaling innovations that involve technical complexity and significant investment.

Automotive

The automotive sector’s increasing focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and battery technology means that its executives are well-versed in managing transitions to more sustainable technologies. They understand both the challenges of large-scale manufacturing and the integration of new technologies, making them ideal candidates for clean tech firms focusing on electrification or mobility solutions.

3. The 3 Main Challenges in Attracting Growth-Stage Leaders

The clean tech sector presents a number of challenges when it comes to attracting the right leadership. Despite its fast growth and potential, there are perceived risks that must be addressed to appeal to top talent:

1. Risk and Uncertainty

Clean tech is still an emerging market, subject to shifting policies, technological disruption, and regulatory changes. Leaders from more established sectors may be hesitant to move into a space with less security.

2. Resource Constraints

Growth-stage companies often operate under tight financial constraints, which can be a deterrent for executives used to larger budgets and extensive resources.

3. Talent Gaps

While clean tech offers exciting opportunities, it can also present talent gaps—particularly in technical and operational expertise. Leaders may face the challenge of building their teams in an industry with a limited talent pool.

4. The 3 Key Opportunities for Growth-Stage Leaders in Clean Tech

Despite the challenges, clean tech presents a wealth of opportunities for leaders who are eager to make a difference in a sector that is not only poised for rapid growth but is also shaping the future of sustainability:

1. Market Leadership

With governments and businesses prioritising sustainability initiatives, clean tech companies are primed for rapid expansion. Growth-stage leaders have the unique opportunity to shape industries that are set to dominate the future of energy and environmental solutions.

2. Driving Innovation at Scale

From renewable energy to electric mobility, clean tech leaders will be at the cutting edge of technological and environmental innovation. The chance to bring these innovations to a global market is a compelling challenge for visionary executives.

3. Building a Legacy

For many, the clean tech sector represents not just a career move, but a legacy-building opportunity. Leading a company that makes a direct impact on sustainability, climate change, and the future of energy is a rare and meaningful chance to leave a lasting mark.

In conclusion, clean tech companies at the growth stage require visionary leaders capable of navigating rapid expansion, commercialising cutting-edge technology, and managing complex regulatory environments. Odgers Berndtson’s deep industry knowledge, cross-sector expertise, and tailored approach uniquely position us to help companies attract and retain the growth-stage leaders who will drive the future of clean technology.

This article was written by Colin Roope (Associate Parter & Manufacturing and Engineering, Berwick Partners) Jonathan Rossotto (Partner & Head of Energy, Odgers Berndtson) & Terry Noble (Partner and Energy & Utilities, Odgers Interim)