Growth Strategist | Energy Transition Leader | Scaling Emerging Technology |Greater Chicago Area
Key Takeaways
- Continuous Learning: Erin’s pursuit of education reflects the importance of continuous learning in a rapidly evolving professional landscape.
- Sustainability Advocacy: Her leadership at CNT underscores the significance of advocating for economic and environmental sustainability.
- Global Impact: Erin’s roles in global government affairs and trade highlight the impact of understanding and navigating international markets.
Introduction
In the dynamic realm of business strategy, innovation, and energy transition, Erin Grossi stands as a beacon of leadership. With a career spanning various industries and a keen ability to identify market trends, Erin has consistently turned challenges into multi-million dollar opportunities for businesses. Let’s embark on a journey through her remarkable career, exploring her educational background, professional experiences, and the profound impact she has had on the realms of mobility, energy systems, and global innovation.
Educational Journey
Erin’s academic prowess laid the foundation for her stellar career. Armed with a Doctorate in International Commerce and Trade from Georgetown University, she delved into the intricate web of global affairs. Her commitment to continuous learning is evident in her participation in programs such as the UL Executive Leadership Program at Yale University and the UL Global Leadership Program at Northwestern University.
Leadership at Accenture
For the past six years, Erin has been a pivotal force at Accenture, currently serving as a Partner and eMobility & Energy Systems Innovation Lead for North America. In this role, she utilizes her strategic and technical talents to assist clients in realizing their eMobility aspirations and developing new, distributed energy systems. Erin collaborates across diverse industries, including Utilities, Oil & Gas, Automotive, and Retail, bringing end-to-end strategic and technical implementation expertise.
During her tenure as Managing Director, Global Innovation & Growth Strategy, Erin played a crucial role in scaling Accenture’s digital transformation programs. She focused on bolstering strategic and innovation efforts for clients navigating disruptions in the Post-Digital Age. Her leadership extended to the energy and industrial systems innovation domain, where she collaborated with utilities, energy companies, and industrial innovators.
Impactful Leadership at CNT
Erin’s commitment to sustainability and urban development came to the forefront during her tenure as the Chief Executive Officer at the Center for Neighborhood Technology (CNT). In this role, she championed economic development, climate resilience, and urban analytics. Erin’s work at CNT and its affiliate, Elevate Energy, contributed significantly to the planning and development of distributed energy, transportation, and water systems in cities across the nation.
Driving Innovation at UL
Before her time at Accenture, Erin served as the Chief Economist and Director of Innovation at UL, marking the company’s first-ever appointment to such a role in its 125-year history. As the Chief Innovation Strategist, Erin analyzed macro-trends and provided insights to executives on market dynamics, threats, and future growth opportunities. Her contributions to sustainable building assessments and global shifts in high-performance building garnered global attention, emphasizing her role as a thought leader in the clean energy economy.
Global Perspectives in Trade and Legislation
Erin’s multifaceted career includes roles as Director of Global Government Affairs at UL and a Legislative Analyst at Federal Financial Analytics. She actively developed and lobbied for UL’s trade policy positions, contributing to the company’s brand awareness in 28 countries. Her legislative consulting provided valuable insights to banks and brokerages on issues like Basel II implementation.
5 Leadership Lessons
1. Visionary Leadership: Erin’s ability to identify market trends and transform challenges into opportunities showcases visionary leadership. As a leader, cultivate a forward-thinking mindset, anticipate industry shifts, and proactively shape strategies that align with future trends.
2. Adaptability in a Changing Landscape: Erin’s diverse roles across industries, from Accenture to UL, highlight the importance of adaptability. Leaders should embrace change, remain agile, and be willing to pivot their strategies to navigate evolving business landscapes effectively.
3. Cross-Industry Collaboration: Erin’s collaborations across Utilities, Oil & Gas, Automotive, and Retail emphasize the power of cross-industry collaboration. Leaders should seek opportunities to collaborate with diverse sectors, fostering innovation through the exchange of ideas and expertise.
4. Commitment to Sustainability: Erin’s leadership at the Center for Neighborhood Technology underscores the significance of a commitment to sustainability. Leaders should prioritize environmentally conscious practices, integrating sustainability into their business strategies to contribute positively to both the business and the planet.
5. Thought Leadership and Personal Branding: Erin’s recognition in the “40 Under 40” cohort and as an Executive-in-Residence highlights the impact of thought leadership. Leaders should actively build their personal brand, share valuable insights, and position themselves as industry experts. Thought leadership not only elevates individual credibility but also enhances the reputation of the organizations they lead.
Editorial Notes
Erin Grossi’s story is not just a chronicle of achievements but a guide for aspiring leaders navigating the complexities of today’s business landscape. As we celebrate her journey, let it inspire us to embrace innovation, lead with purpose, and make a lasting impact on the world.
