
Claire Gotham
VP, Utilities & Renewables at Capgemini
TED Attendee
Atlanta , Georgia, United StatesAbout Claire
I am a…
Athlete, Brainstormer, Business leader, Business mentor, Change agent, Connector, Consultant, Idea generator, Life mentor, Parent, World traveler
Bio
With a career spanning over two and a half decades in the energy sector, Claire is an Energy Transition leader. As a Vice President in Capgemini’s Resources & Energy Transition business unit, Claire has charted her professional trajectory, working to transform the ways we think about and address energy transition and renewable solutions.
At the heart of Claire's expertise is an unwavering commitment to developing cutting-edge climate technologies. She has navigated complex projects, leading diverse teams to deliver tangible results in alignment with the business vision. Her innovative spirit and expertise have positioned her at the forefront of the industry's transformation, with a deep understanding of the multifaceted issues and opportunities inherent in the energy transition.
Beyond her technical and strategic acumen, Claire is a dedicated business development professional. She has successfully executed multiple engagements with a range of clients, both local and international. This includes providing advisory services to C-suite executives, Boards of Directors, as well as collaborating with various levels of management, PMO boards, project staff, technology specialists, and consultants. Claire has a keen ability to understand and navigate the unique dynamics of each of these relationships, ensuring a harmonious and productive working environment.
Claire’s passion is seen perhaps most distinctly in her advocacy for diversity and inclusion. She has grown her US Renewables team from a one-woman operation to a dynamic team of six core members and over a dozen cross-company members. It's noteworthy that all these new members are women and underrepresented minorities. This is not a coincidence, but a result of Claire's commitment to amplifying diverse voices in a sector where they have been historically underrepresented. She recognizes that the energy transition isn't just about technology and infrastructure, but also about social change and empowering those who have often been left out of these critical conversations.
I'm passionate about
I am passionate about increasing women's representation across all fields, including but not limited to energy and technology. I am also passionate about the arts and providing art education access to all.
An idea worth spreading
"The power of community" or, as I call it, "Why you should get on some grids”. We all have multiple "grids" or connecting points like the church grid, school grid, book club, knitting circle, or even the "I love pictures of cats wearing pants" fan club. (No judgment here!) These grids are distinct little communities, and while some think home and work are all they need, there's more to life than office potlucks and family game nights.
Join a community, and suddenly, you're not alone binge-watching Netflix or Hulu; you've got fellow enthusiasts to share theories with. You have a sense of belonging. You also get a built-in support system. Got a flat tire? There's probably someone from one of your grids who's happy to help. Life's challenges seem a little less daunting when you've got a virtual army of connections ready to pitch in.
Participation in various communities contributes to building social capital. This network of relationships, shared values, understanding, and cooperation that develops among people who interact within a community is linked to various positive social outcomes such as better health, lower crime rates, and more effective governance.
By being part of different communities, you also have opportunities to develop new skills. Whether it's leadership in a volunteer group, creativity in an art club, or teamwork in a sports league, these grids offer platforms for personal growth and self-improvement.
Finally, communities often provide fertile ground for networking, both professionally and personally. Networking within these various grids can lead to career advancement, friendships, and collaborations that might not otherwise have been possible.
The idea that we only need home and work as our primary grids is limiting and overlooks the rich tapestry of life that can be explored through engaging with multiple communities. By understanding and embracing the various grids around us, we open ourselves up to psychological well-being, sociological advantages, and personal growth.
Embracing the power of community is not merely a choice but an essential component of a fulfilling and well-rounded life. It's time to explore the grids around you and discover the uncharted dimensions they can add to your existence.
This exploration into the diverse aspects of community and the concept of grids is more than just an idea worth sharing; it's a life philosophy worth living. So, get out there with your grid map and maybe a cat in pants, find your grids, and engage with them wholeheartedly. These grids aren't just communities; they're invitations to a party you didn't know you were missing.
Areas of expertise
Client Relations, Commodity Risk, Energy Markets, Energy Transition, Renewables, Risk Management, Utilities
Things you might not know
Karaoke and making paella (not at the same time!)