On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the CEO of Enaon EDA, Ms. Francesca Zanninotti participated in energypress.gr’s tribute to “Women in Energy.”
You can read the interview below:
“Personally, I believe that holding a leadership position also entails a responsibility towards the younger professionals entering the organization,” says Francesca Zanninotti, CEO of Enaon EDA, Hellenic Gas Distribution Company, member of the Italgas Group. She believes that if her own professional journey can demonstrate that there is space for everyone in a demanding yet highly interesting sector such as energy, then this in itself sends a positive message for the future.
What steps led you professionally into the energy sector? Was it a clear choice from the beginning, or did it emerge along the way?
My own professional journey in the energy sector began more than twenty-three years ago. Entering the industry was not the result of a carefully designed career plan. It was my first job after completing my studies at the Polytechnic and, soon afterwards, I came to realise that energy is a sector with a profound impact on people’s daily lives, on economic development and on the long-term prospects of a country.
Over the course of the past two decades, the energy sector itself has evolved considerably. In the early years of my career, the discussion focused primarily on the development of natural gas distribution networks and on delivering reliable services with high standards of safety and quality. Today, however, in the era of energy transition, the picture is broader. Issues such as energy security, technological progress, and the need for a more sustainable energy system are shaping a new environment, with new challenges and responsibilities, for companies in the sector, but also for the people who work in it.
In this context, strategic investment in modern energy infrastructure and networks capable of supporting the energy system of the future becomes particularly important. For the Italgas Group – and for Enaon EDA, the subsidiary of Enaon in Greece – the development and modernisation of distribution networks is a key element of this effort, ensuring a safe and reliable energy supply while contributing to the broader energy transition.
There are relatively few women in positions of responsibility in the energy sector. What do you think this is due to?
From an early stage I felt naturally drawn to technical disciplines. At the time, however, the academic and professional pathways most commonly associated with young women tended to lead in different directions. Nevertheless, technical fields were those that interested me the most and where I believed I could develop my skills in a meaningful way. I was also fortunate to have the support of my family – and particularly my mother – who encouraged me to pursue the path that genuinely inspired me.
Today I believe even more strongly that much of this begins with the environment in which young people grow up. When girls are given the freedom to choose their studies and career paths without the weight of preconceived expectations, they are far more likely to discover and develop their true potential.
Does gender play a role in professional advancement, and what was a characteristic moment when you became aware of this?
It is essential for organisations to cultivate an environment in which people can progress professionally on the basis of their skills and their contribution. Although progress has been made in recent years, women remain underrepresented both in technical studies and in leadership positions across industry and the energy sector.
Do you feel there has been improvement regarding gender equality in the workplace? Could you share a relevant personal experience?
In my view, genuine balance is not achieved through preferential treatment but through equal opportunities, meritocracy and transparent evaluation processes.
Experience has taught me that the greatest challenges often conceal the most meaningful opportunities for learning and innovation. Across the broader energy sector – from generation and infrastructure to transmission, distribution, and emerging technologies – young people, and particularly girls, can experiment, test their capabilities, and discover ways to turn knowledge into tangible outcomes. Women, with their distinct perspectives, creativity, and focus on collaboration and human impact, can bring meaningful added value, helping to shape a sector that is more innovative, open, and balanced for everyone.
Source: energypress.gr