"I want to work in cleantech as my next challenge must give me purpose. When my little boy asks me what I do for a job, I want to be proud of my answer"

This stuck with me. 

It came from a recent conversation I had with a candidate, who was looking for his next career opportunity. Simply put, he was motivated by more than just an attractive salary or progression, he was driven to find an opportunity that aligned with his values. 

This is a consistent theme I'm seeing, as a headhunter in Cleantech and Clean Energy. Let's face it, climate change is there in plain sight. Whether it's the unusually high temperatures in October or the terrible wild fires that are becoming far too commonplace on our news channels. There's no escaping the harsh realities we're facing. 

Even just 10 years ago, climate awareness was low for many (including me, I must admit) but recent studies have shown that the majority of people are now conscious about climate change, as seen in the quote below, and as a result many are placing emphasis on a more climate-conscious career with purpose. 

This was certainly the case for me. Looking back over my Executive Search career, my experience has been diverse to say the least. I've worked in a range of sectors, from cybersecurity software, to manufacturing and machinery, to Oil & Gas and Petrochemicals! 

Having had enough of feeding the fossil fuel machine, in early 2021 it was time for a change. I had a yearning for more purpose - to join a meaningful sector that I proud to be a part of. That is when I found Hyperion, and my eyes were opened to the wonderful work going on in cleantech around the world. I fancied a piece of that! Two years on and I can safely say its been the best career choice I've made. It may sound cheesy but I genuinely wake up each day with a sense of pride. 

The past two years has also shown me how important this is for so many others too. People are increasingly conscious of their impact on the planet and will choose to work for companies who are walking the walk as well as talking the talk. Just this year I've had candidates join some of our cleantech clients for less financial reward, but because they felt they'd be able to make a real difference.

This is only going to increase as the next generation of leaders emerge. Employers must now think above and beyond the usual drivers of compensation, progression, and flexibility and offer real purpose to new and existing employees. 

It doesn't just apply to companies active in cleantech, it spans all industries. Those companies showing bold leadership when it comes to sustainable practices, corporate social responsibility and diversity will thrive in the new era of working. 

As my candidate said, we all should feel proud when we tell people what we do for a living. If you don't, then maybe it's time for a change?