Welcome to the 37th episode of the #MyEnergyLife series, a weekly LinkedIn feature designed to highlight, engage with, and empower emerging energy professionals across Africa. Through a series of articles, we will explore the many career paths that exist in the energy industry. Our aim is to provide valuable insights and counsel to support the career aspirations of young professionals in the energy industry.
In this episode, we meet Judith Okoli-Anaeto , Manager, Inclusive and Sustainable Operations at United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). Judith Okoli-Anaeto shares her story of how she got started in the energy industry, detailing her initial challenges and offering invaluable advice to professionals seeking their path in this dynamic industry.
Full Name
Judith Okoli-Anaeto
Current Company Name
United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
Current Job Title
Manager, Inclusive and Sustainable Operations
Specialization
Sustainability, Green Buildings, Energy Efficiency, Energy management, Renewable Energy, Green Energy Financing
Country of Origin
Nigeria
Tell us about your journey in the energy industry.
I will describe my career journey as one of God's grace, an affinity for knowledge, and a will to excel. I started as an architect who was keener on the functionality of built spaces than on the form or aesthetics themselves. This passion for inclusive and sustainable buildings enabled my foray into other aspects of the built environment, helping my career to scale. Both my thesis projects for my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in architecture were on the application of sustainability and sustainable design principles, which was an evolving concept at the time.
I interned at Nigeriaâs pioneer architectural company, Interstate Architects Ltd., where I worked on a large commercial project and picked up project and facility management skills early on. From there, I worked at a large development and real-estate organization, Post-Service Housing Development. From the onset, I was entrusted with considerable responsibility, marking the commencement of a rich and diverse professional adventure that spanned close to 12 years and culminated in my role as the Assistant Head of Design and Construction. It was there that I solidified my interest in green buildings and energy efficiency, introducing these initiatives and innovations in over 20 housing estates across the country.
Subsequently, I joined the GIZ Nigeria & ECOWAS as Infrastructure Coordinator with the Support to Strengthening Resilience Programme. Specifically, I worked with Michael Kirchesch and an amazing team to innovate and deliver over 100 sustainable infrastructure projects, such as solar-powered boreholes, health centers, markets, schools, and other WASH projects. These projects were designed to be green and incorporated renewable energy. This trajectory not only ignited my passion for sustainable energy but also laid the groundwork for future endeavors. I also had the amazing opportunity of collaborating with Joseph Abba and the PrimeTech Design and Engineering Nigeria Ltd. team, along with other brilliant consultants and contractors.
Fueled by a desire to broaden my skill set and expertise, I directed my focus to energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable buildings. I acquired an MBA in sustainability and key certifications such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), WELL, and Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiency (EDGE). This facilitated my transition to my current role as Environmental Sustainability and Inclusive Access Manager. Over the past few years, I have had the privilege of collaborating with key stakeholders across all levels of hierarchy, a versatility that has allowed me to develop holistic expertise encompassing strategic policymaking and technical and operational implementation in the field.
What do you do in your current role at your company?
I lead a dedicated team tasked with improving UNICEF âs internal sustainability and implementing the Environmental Management System (EMS). I provide support to over 400 offices globally to strategically reduce GHG emissions and environmental footprints through planning and implementation of carbon reduction and eco-efficiency improvement projects such as energy efficiency, energy management, green building certifications, water efficiency, sustainable fleet and waste management, and sustainable behavior change awareness.
Another main goal is to source most of our electricity from renewable energy through the implementation of solar PV systems. I also manage the Greening Fund to finance the above-listed initiatives. Part of my EMS role involves carbon auditing, coordinating the annual environmental inventory and reporting, as well as contributing to UN inter-agency collaborations and technical working groups.
Could you describe your typical day at work?
My typical day is swamped. I usually start quite early, often before 6 a.m., and my day extends into the evening. Coordinating with a large operational network across 420+ offices spread across all geographic zones in 190 countries is not for the faint-hearted.
It's interesting that my 6 a.m. in New York is 6 p.m. for some of my offices, so I need to be flexible and considerate as I navigate meeting schedules. Afterward, I dive into deep work and then catch up with my team on the various initiatives and activities we are undertaking. I believe leadership is from the front, so I make sure to put in the hard work. I know that the work we do is daunting, so I need to set an example. Amid these tasks, I catch up on emails and attend to strategic tasks, including internal and external engagements.
"The most fun thing is that I love what I do!.â
What are some of the challenges you have faced in the industry?
Challenges come daily, and one must brace oneself: âtough times donât last, tough people do.â I often joke that my work is like that of a doctor in the ER. We work in some of the toughest places to reach children, and one canât predict what support offices will need. Itâs common to abandon a dayâs to-do list and dive in to support other pressing priorities.
Additionally, working in a diverse workplace, crafting your identity, and balancing authenticity can be challenging.
It may sound like a cliché; however, I believe it can be difficult for anyone navigating a career and raising a family, especially for women. It gets tougher if you have a child or children requiring more attention.
What is the most fun thing you love about your work?
The most fun thing is that I love what I do! I like the opportunity it provides to gain experience and expand my expertise. Being able to acquire new skills, almost as a jack of many trades, is refreshing. Once I assumed my current role, I knew that it wasn't enough to monitor and report GHG emissions. I had to actively lead the internal carbon audit process from a place of expert knowledge. Only then would I truly be able to innovate on emission reduction strategies for greening operations and facilities. This sparked my interesting foray into ESG as a Certified Carbon Auditor with the Association of Energy Engineers. Similarly, I recently achieved the ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems Certification out of a sheer desire to continue making a difference and improving results.
Although finding the time to upskill may be a daunting challenge and sacrifice, the gains outweigh the pain.
Additionally, the work that we doâdelivering results for children, helping them realize their dream of a healthy, livable environmentâis incredibly inspiring. We never give up. I find it truly motivating that my job contributes to ensuring that we are walking the talk through our sustainable operations.
How do you balance work and life?
To be honest, I am daily inundated with tasks. Though some days are easier, others can be very overwhelming. On this issue, my opinion leans on two discussions: one from Transcorp CEO Owen Omogiafo OON, who advises work-life integration (a mix of work and family time as circumstances require); and that of Ziad Haddadâs on work-life separation (when you are at work, give it 100%, and once at home, switch off work, do not bring work home). I apply each as occasions arise. In all, I am thankful for a community of help from my husband, children, friends, and family who have shown genuine support so that I can continue to chase my dreams. I encourage asking for help and taking time off every couple of months to disconnect from work, unwind, and spend quality time with family.
What hard skills should someone in your field have?
Critical thinking, problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, coupled with a data-driven approach, are essential, regardless of one's background, to be successful in this field. Depending on what aspect of energy or sustainability you work in, acquiring strong technical skills will help you know your âonions,â speak confidently, and demonstrate expertise.
What soft skills should someone in your field have?
People skillsâcommunication, collaboration, empathy, emotional intelligence, and resilienceâare necessary in the workplace.
What is the best thing about your work?
The scale of the impact and success stories: The UN system published its latest environmental sustainability report, which analyzed performance and featured a case study highlighting our progress towards GHG reductions and greening premises. Recently, one of our offices achieved EDGE Green Building Advanced Certification â the first of its kind in that country. The transition of our operations to sustainable solutions and renewable energy has been remarkable. Several offices are exclusively powered by solar energy. These, along with various other feats, are significant high points.
What would you consider a highlight of your career?
There are several. I consider success as the journey, not the destination. All accomplishments and steps taken to get here are really dear to me. To highlight one, I played a pivotal role in the development of Long-Term Agreements with multiple solar service providers in the various regions where we operate, which will help to scale solar projects. The positive feedback is particularly rewarding. I would also highlight the opportunity for personal development. Currently, I am completing my PhD in Sustainable Development and Diplomacy under the impactful supervision of Laurent Cleenewerck de Kiev.
"Be self-motivated and believe in yourself."
What are you passionate about outside of work?
I love music. I always wanted to be a singer. đ I enjoy cooking and baking. I see myself exploring this in the future; donât ask me when. đ I used to be an avid fan of Manchester United and Real Madrid football clubs, but I donât keep up anymore.
How do you think that your work makes a difference in the energy space?
The work I do is critical for the success of integrating green solutions for sustainable and eco-efficient operations. This has enabled a big shift from fossil fuels towards renewable energy and energy efficiency. I have introduced energy management and implemented Power Consumption Monitoring Meters (PCMM) across global offices. I am leading energy awareness, changing behaviors, and mindsets on energy conservation.
What advice do you have for someone new to the industry?
Be self-motivated and believe in yourself. Seek out inspiration and mentors. I recall reading an article years ago on Sandra Legg, the first and only woman to head an Aviation Field Operation for the World Food Programme. Her advice for women in aviation was, âQualifications are very important so while working, take the necessary licenses.â It is important to acquire the necessary technical skills and credentials. Inhale confidence, and exhale doubt. The possibilities of the future are unbounded, and unlocking them will always require confidence.
As Ndubuisi Ekekwe said, âDo it afraid, Fall forward. You are as good as the person out there doing it, if not better. While you may not be 100% ready, always remember that anyone who takes jobs or challenges he/she is 100% ready for is not making real progress.â Finally, learn how to get things done. As Barack Obama said, âAt every level, Iâve seen people who are very good at describing problems, people who are sophisticated in explaining the problems. But what I am looking for is someone who says "let me take care of itâ. A can-do attitude will take you far. The best way to get attention is to nail whatever is assigned to you.
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