Talent Development: Transitioning Human Capital from Oil & Gas to Renewables

Dr. Nabih Cherradi is Desert Technologies' Chief Technology Officer. Has spent over 34 years building on a long track record of equipment's/production lines as well as business development in the semiconductor and photovoltaic industries. Prior to joining Desert Technologies, Nabih is also the CEO of EmpowerSun, a Swiss based photovoltaic energy consultancy, which he founded in 2009. In the meantime, he also co-founded ISWT a French solar developer company. From 2007-2009, as a Vice President/CTO, he accompanied Yingli Green Energy in its fast expansion with responsibility for the technology and manufacturing. He also participated in its IPO in New York (NYSE). As operations & process director at Applied Materials from 1997 to 2007 Nabih was responsible for installing turn-key semiconductor and photovoltaic production lines throughout the world, installing multiple GWs of production capacity across a ten year period. As a scientist, he focused on advance materials for different applications working with different industries (Semiconductor, Photovoltaic and Hard tools) He holds a PhD on materials sciences from the University Henri Poincaré, Nancy as well as an MBA, from the Business School of Nancy, (France).

Over 11 years of professional experience in research and consulting, business strategy, technology assessment and benchmarking. Expertise in executing projects across GCC, South Africa, East & West Africa, European Union and India. Particular expertise in: -Localization & investment promotion -Go to market strategy, geographic expansion and partner prospecting -Market sizing, forecasting and opportunity assessment -Business intelligence and planning -Regulatory policy, electricity tariffs, utility business models and due diligence Experience base covering broad range of sectors, including: -Energy efficiency and management across industrial, residential & commercial consumers -Energy & Power Systems - conventional and renewable generation -Distributed Generation and Energy Storage -Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration -Subject Matter Expertise in power utilities, energy systems and energy value chain -In-depth understanding of energy & power system technologies from a supply and end user perspective -Ability to develop and define framework and methodologies for market and business opportunity assessment - especially for products, technologies and services linked to energy production and consumption -Comprehensive communication skills with logical and solution driven approach -Assisted a leading Saudi ministry is developing an investment strategy for localization of machinery & equipment products & value chain components -Delivered on a key technology and market opportunity assessment project for a leading Saudi government organisation in the distributed energy segment -Successfully assisted government entities, global OEMs and family business groups in the GCC on market expansion and technology localization opportunities -Conferred with Frost & Sullivan's 'President's Club' award for outstanding performance in 2021

Lewis is the Operations Director at NES Fircroft, the largest Engineering & Technical Manpower Solutions business in the world.

Maria is an unwavering advocate for sustainability, harnessing her 22 years expertise in ESG frameworks to spearhead transformative change within industries like construction, real estate ,energy and the investment and services sectors. With an unwavering commitment to guiding cross-sector corporate clients and SMEs towards achieving net zero and ensuring social sustainability compliance, Maria is a driving force in the journey towards a greener future. As the visionary founder of "Sustainability Switch Consultancy," she has solidified her position as a leading woman solopreneur, empowering organizations to align their sustainability agenda with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Beyond her consultancy work, Maria actively contributes to the non-profit organization "Lean In Equity and Sustainability" as Board Co-Chair and Sustainability Chair, empowering women in the energy transition and advocating for a more inclusive industry. Maria's impressive academic background complements her extensive professional experience, as she holds both a UK Master's and Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering and has acquired sustainability expertise from Cambridge University (CISL). Her 22-year international journey in corporate strategy and project operations includes the successful implementation of numerous large-scale projects and government initiatives, solidifying her reputation as a seasoned leader in her field. Recognized as an authority in the realm of sustainability, Maria is highly sought after as a keynote speaker at renowned conferences focusing on sustainability, ESG, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her captivating presence and deep knowledge inspire audiences while providing practical insights into tackling climate change challenges. Maria also conducts executive-level workshops, delving into various climate change subjects, empowering participants to take action and drive meaningful impact. Leveraging her wealth of expertise, she has published numerous articles that serve as beacons of knowledge, inspiring and educating others on the path to a sustainable future. As a thought leader, innovator, and influencer, Maria's contributions to cross sector industry decarbonization are paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future. Her unwavering dedication, combined with her remarkable ability to connect with diverse audiences, makes her an indispensable voice in shaping the energy transition discourse.

Marta Mieres Bárcena is EMEA Pole Director for Renewables and Energy Storage in Honeywell International ,Inc. Marta has +15 years of experience working for multinational corporations and leading transactions in the field of large-scale renewable assets and power unit converters, with a primary focus on the energy markets of Europe and America. Marta earned a Master´s degree and Master of Science on Industrial Engineering with intensification in electrotechnical technology. She holds a Master´s degree in International Trading, and Master´s degree in Strategic Marketing Management by Esade Business&Law School. Marta is collegiate member of COIIAS (Official College of industrial Engineers - Oviedo, Spain), Member of ISES (International Solar Energy Society - Freiburg, Germany), and member of GWNET (Global Women's Network for the Energy Transition- Vienna, Austria). She is Steering Committee member in the Honeywell´s council for Inclusion&Diversity and HWEN (Honeywell Women European Network). Marta also cooperates with several institutions and universities, being co-director in Master´s degrees on renewable projects execution and hybrid systems applications. She also actively participates as speaker or moderator at international energy forums and congresses, addressing fundamental aspects for renewables development, energy efficiency in the industrial sector, and international energy challenges for global deployment of a cleaner energy mix. She is also certified mentor in RAI- Royal Academy of Engineering (Madrid- Spain) enhancing talent development and promoting vocations of future professionals in STEM areas. She speaks regularly on leadership in energy business at industry forums and academic institutions.