If you want to go far, go together
Red Rocket’s women leaders are helping to shape South Africa’s energy transition and the future of leadership within the sector. Engineering News speaks with Jean Wessels, Finance Director, about her work, the rapidly evolving renewable energy landscape and the opportunities it presents for women. Camerawork and editing: Miko Moodley.
Jean Wessels oversees Red Rocket’s financial operations, compliance, planning and strategy. Initially one of the few women presenting the group’s financials in the boardroom, she has watched the sector expand and make room for broader skills, perspectives and leadership styles, opening doors that were far less visible a decade ago.
An African proverb defines her approach to leadership – “‘if you want to go fast go alone, but if you want to go far, go together’. In decision-making I try to create genuine buy-in by making sure people feel seen, heard and part of the outcome.”
For her, renewable energy operates in cycles that can change faster than any business plan. “This makes agility essential: leaders need the discipline to revisit assumptions and adjust course when circumstances shift. At the same time, the sector requires long-term conviction, as returns are often measured over years, not quarters. Strong leaders must hold a steady course through short-term noise.”
Drawing on her experience in the international audit world, she has seen the changing role of women leaders and the role they can play leading commercial and strategic conversations. In the renewables sector career paths are not as fixed as in more mature industries.
“This creates real scope for women to shape roles, not simply step into existing moulds. Renewable energy also brings together many disciplines, from finance and engineering to project development and, increasingly, energy trading capabilities, which means there is no single route into a long-term career in the industry.”
“What excites me most is that renewable energy is about so much more than generating electricity. It has the potential to power South Africa’s economic future. More stable and affordable energy can give businesses the confidence to invest, support stronger manufacturing, contribute to GDP growth and create meaningful jobs.”
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