Maria Flouda

Maria Flouda is the founder of Sustainability Switch Consultancy, a UAE-based venture helping organizations align sustainability strategies with the fast-evolving, AI-driven business landscape and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She also serves as Board Co-Chair and UAE Network Leader of Lean In Equity & Sustainability, championing access to opportunities for women and allies in the green transition. A postgraduate Civil Engineer, Maria has over 24 years of experience in corporate strategy, ESG frameworks, and project delivery across public and private sectors. She collaborates with major industry players including International Holding Company (IHC), Ghitha Group, Masdar, and DIFC, advancing sustainability initiatives, ESG compliance, and stakeholder engagement. Recognized for expertise in climate change and sustainability—covering green transition, hydrogen, AI, supply chain decarbonization, and green finance—Maria has advised the EU-GCC Green Transition Strategic Project and contributed to high-level forums such as COP29 in Baku and COP16 in Riyadh. With credentials from Cambridge University (CISL) and degrees in Civil Engineering, Maria is known for embedding ESG objectives into corporate frameworks and supporting clients in achieving net-zero goals. A sought-after speaker and mentor, she addresses sustainability, ESG, DEI, and women’s empowerment in energy, including through her role with Masdar’s WiSER initiative, inspiring the next generation of leaders.

Session Overview

Thursday, 6 November

15:00

Diversity, Leadership and Development Conference Room B 15:00 - 15:40

Developing the next generation of energy professionals

Training, recruiting and retaining the talent needed to deliver the new global energy system will require comprehensive employee development strategies that prioritise building skills, developing talent, and embracing innovation. By investing in structured training and certification programmes that align with both individual aspirations and organisational needs, the energy sector has an opportunity to enhance employee engagement and future-proof the workforce of tomorrow. Employers that embrace and invest in their employees will maximise their chances of creating cultures in which energy professionals feel valued, engaged, and a sense of shared responsibility. What’s more, the organisations that prioritise employee development are most likely to foster trust and attract talented individuals who are passionate about making an impact. In today’s ultra-competitive recruitment market, these factors are more important than ever.

Attendee Insights:

Explore strategies with the potential to strengthen career pathways, engagement and retention while promoting lifelong learning, developing the energy professionals of tomorrow.

Thursday, 7 November

11:00

Voices of Tomorrow Conference Room B 11:00 - 12:00

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The importance of diversity and inclusion in unlocking the energy transition

Energy companies that build inclusive cultures, where individuals feel safe to express themselves and challenge others, thrive in many ways. Firstly, they innovate more. Secondly, they gain a competitive edge in the energy transition by attracting and retaining top talent and getting the best out of their employees. To make this happen, leaders should commit to a clear talent strategy and take concrete steps to create an inclusive environment that drives innovation.

Attendee Insight:

Explore how businesses are moving from commitments to tangible strategies and outcomes to develop an inclusive workforce capable of driving innovation and organisational performance in the energy transition.