Romanian Energy Firm Hits 50% Women Leadership, €23M Growth

When Iulia Meiroșu switched from banking to renewable energy, she brought something the booming sector desperately needed: financial strategy skills and a fresh perspective. Now, as CFO and board member at Enexus, she's watching those diverse viewpoints translate into remarkable results.

The numbers tell a compelling story. Enexus grew its revenue tenfold in 2024, reaching €23 million and contracting over 250 megawatts across solar projects. The company's leadership reflects an uncommon balance: women hold 50% of board positions in a team of 45 people spanning Romanian and Turkish cultures, millennials and Gen Z.

Meiroșu credits this diversity for stronger decision-making. "Diverse leadership teams tend to challenge assumptions earlier and assess risk more holistically," she explains. That careful assessment shows up in how the company approaches investments, partnerships, and scaling operations in a volatile market.

The shift reflects broader changes across Romania's energy sector. About 28% of Romanian university students now graduate from STEM programs, with women representing a significant share. These graduates are filling roles that go far beyond traditional engineering, from project management to commercial strategy to IT development.

The Ripple Effect

The impact reaches beyond one company's bottom line. Last year, 70% of Enexus interns and new hires were women, creating pathways into an industry that desperately needs talent. The company actively mentors young professionals through real projects, recognizing that hands-on experience accelerates growth faster than textbooks.

Meiroșu's advice to women entering renewables focuses on competence over credentials. "Growth comes from skills, not labels," she says. She didn't wait for the energy industry to validate her banking background; she proved her value through consistent delivery and participation in the sector's rapid progress.

The renewable energy sector in Romania historically leaned male, especially in field operations, due to traditional perceptions about technical roles. But as the industry expanded across Europe, teams naturally diversified. Today's energy companies need excellence across operations, finance, procurement, and stakeholder management, not just engineering.

For young women considering the field, Meiroșu sees perfect timing. Romania has deep energy expertise and clear vision for sector development. The industry is dynamic, fast-growing, and offers roles that allow professionals to learn while contributing.

Her formula for success stays simple: be curious, patient, and consistent, then own your growth.