Monica Collings OBE has emerged as one of the most respected leaders in the UK energy and infrastructure sector. With an impressive career spanning leadership roles across multiple industries, she has earned recognition for driving transformation, fostering inclusivity, and leading with authenticity in challenging times. Her journey reflects not just professional excellence, but a deep commitment to creating workplaces where talent thrives without barriers.
Monica began her career in commercial and leadership roles across sectors including retail, home improvement, property, and automotive. Her early experience shaped her business acumen and strategic thinking, preparing her for leadership in one of the most dynamic and fast-changing industries – energy. She went on to lead Vattenfall’s UK retail business before becoming Chief Executive of So Energy, a challenger brand known for its customer-centric approach and commitment to sustainability.
During her time as CEO, Monica steered So Energy through one of the most turbulent periods in the UK energy market, the energy crisis while ensuring the company remained customer-focused and operationally strong. Under her leadership, So Energy merged with ESB Energy, expanding its footprint and resilience in the market.
Championing Diversity and Inclusion in Energy
What makes Monica’s story particularly inspiring is her relentless advocacy for diversity and gender equality in the energy sector. She was the only woman CEO of a domestic energy supplier during the energy crisis – a remarkable achievement that underscored both her competence and courage.
In recognition of her outstanding contribution to advancing women’s leadership in energy, Monica was honored with the Order of the British Empire (OBE). Her work has gone beyond individual success – she has become a voice for systemic change, championing diversity as a business imperative, not just a moral goal.
Monica currently serves as Chair of POWERful Women, an organization dedicated to increasing female representation at the top levels of the UK energy industry. Through this platform, she mentors, advises, and advocates for women to step into leadership positions, helping build a more balanced and innovative future for the sector.
Broad Industry Impact and Boardroom Leadership
Beyond energy, Monica’s expertise spans a wide range of industries and leadership contexts. She holds non-executive and advisory positions across several organizations, including Adler & Allan and Dalcour Maclaren, where she contributes her strategic insight on sustainability, resilience, and organizational transformation. She also serves as Chair of Plug-N-Go, a growing electric vehicle charging network, reflecting her commitment to accelerating the transition toward cleaner mobility.
Her ability to lead through uncertainty, connect complex systems, and champion responsible business practices has made her a trusted voice in both boardrooms and public forums. Monica is known for combining strategic clarity with human-centered leadership – a quality that has set her apart in moments of crisis and change.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders
Monica’s leadership philosophy is rooted in empowerment and inclusion. She believes that progress in any organization depends on the ability to give people autonomy, build trust, and create spaces where diverse ideas can thrive. Her focus on mentorship and collaboration has helped many rising leaders, especially women; navigate their own career journeys with confidence.
In every role she has held, Monica Collings has exemplified what it means to lead with purpose. Her career is a reminder that success in the modern world isn’t only about growth and profit — it’s also about building resilient systems, empowering people, and ensuring that progress benefits everyone.
From steering companies through complex transitions to reshaping how the energy industry thinks about diversity, Monica continues to prove that leadership grounded in integrity, courage, and empathy can truly redefine the future of business.
