Monica Collings’s journey toward becoming a prominent advocate for diversity and sustainability in the energy sector was rooted in a solid educational foundation and early career experiences that shaped her resilience and leadership ethos.
Her academic path began with a marketing degree from De Montfort University, a discipline that sharpened her understanding of consumer behaviour, communication, and strategic brand positioning. During her studies, she gained invaluable experience working in the marketing department of Mercedes-Benz, a renowned automotive giant. Immersed in such a competitive environment at a young age, Monica developed the ability to combine creativity with data-driven decision-making – skills that would later become central to her leadership style. This experience also instilled in her an appreciation for precision, innovation, and the power of storytelling in shaping customer loyalty.
Navigating Adversity During the Financial Crisis
After completing her education, Monica’s path was soon tested by personal and economic challenges. As a single mother during the global financial crisis that hit from 2008, she made the practical decision to enter the property sector, where she could balance career ambitions with family responsibilities. This move, though unplanned, became an important stage in her growth. It highlighted her adaptability and revealed her ability to thrive in uncertain circumstances. By navigating such a volatile period, Monica built resilience, learning to remain focused and solution-driven in the face of adversity – qualities that would later prove invaluable in the high-pressure energy sector.
Entering the Energy Sector
Monica’s determination and expanding skill set did not go unnoticed. She was eventually headhunted into Vattenfall’s UK retail supply operations, marking her first steps into the energy industry. Entering a male-dominated space, she often found herself as the sole woman in the boardroom, a reality that strengthened her belief in the importance of inclusion and diverse representation. Leading within this context, Monica learned to challenge conventions while staying true to her principles, setting the foundation for her future executive roles.
Shaping an Authentic Leadership Style
These formative years – rooted in academia, tested by crisis, and expanded through cross-sector experiences – shaped Monica’s distinctive leadership approach. Early in her career, she admits to mirroring masculine behaviours to fit in. Today, however, she embraces authenticity as her greatest strength, crediting it for accelerating her growth into executive and non-executive leadership positions.
A Foundation for Future Impact
Her early life and education demonstrate how adaptability, resilience, and authenticity can serve as powerful drivers of success. From marketing classrooms to property negotiations and eventually to the corridors of the energy sector, Monica Collings laid the groundwork for a career defined not just by professional achievements but also by her commitment to inclusive leadership and positive change.
