Carlos Tejada, Head of Wind and Solar Engineering at Fortum, is an exceptional leader who combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusion (DEI).
His professional journey, from co-founding a renewable energy firm in the Caribbean to his present role at Fortum, mirrors the company’s dedication to sustainability and the uplifting of diverse teams.
Born in Santiago, Dominican Republic, Carlos’s journey has taken him across continents. His broad experience and international exposure have helped him drive impactful projects in the Nordic region, all while advancing Fortum’s sustainability goals. During his studies in Sweden, Carlos met his wife, and they now live in Finland with their three children, successfully balancing family and career.
Carlos’ career journey began in Santiago, Dominican Republic, where his passion for sustainability and social responsibility was born at a young age.
My parents instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility, and ethical principles - and the importance of education and self-discipline from an early age.
After co-founding a renewable energy firm in the Dominican Republic, Carlos moved to Nordics, to advance renewable energy initiatives, each step refining his leadership perspective.
How Diversity Stimulates Leadership and Influence at Fortum
Carlos’s dedication to sustainability and renewable energy has been the guiding force in his career, leading him to his current position, overseeing significant wind and solar projects across the Nordics, with ambitious growth targets for the coming years, which at the moment include 730 megawatts (MW) of installed wind capacity with the goal to have 800MW of wind and solar ready-to- build pipeline in renewables by the end of 2026 in the Nordics.
His journey, marked by a strong focus on strategic development and operational excellence, aligns seamlessly with Fortum's mission to foster innovation and sustainability in the energy sector. Carlos emphasizes the importance of strategic thinking and continuous improvement through his leadership.
Carlos’s leadership style has developed over time, transitioning from a directive method to one rooted in trust and empowerment. His education from Henley Business School and extensive experience have shaped a leadership style that fosters open communication, emotional intelligence, and a sense of ownership among his team.
DEI: More than a Principle, It’s a Lifestyle at Fortum
At Fortum, DEI is not just a phrase; it forms an essential part of their operational tenet. Fortum has implemented structured recruitment processes and partners with initiatives such as Jobbsprånget and Female Leader Engineer to ensure diverse representation. Additionally, they offer flexible working conditions and DEI training, providing a nurturing environment that values inclusivity.
By embracing diverse perspectives, we've not only enhanced our decision-making but also sparked incredible innovation by assessing different and novel points of views throughout our decision-making processes,
Carlos points out, adding that this inclusive culture has significantly boosted employee engagement, making every team member feel valued and empowered to contribute their best.
Looking into the Future with Fortum
Carlos’s leadership at Fortum illustrates the company’s dedication to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Through systematic recruitment, strategic partnerships, and ongoing development programs, they are shaping the future of the energy sector. Although there’s still much work to do, every step brings Fortum closer to a more inclusive environment where innovation blossoms. As Fortum continues to lead the way in renewable energy, Carlos sees DEI as central to the company’s future success.
We still have work to do, but every initiative brings us closer to a more inclusive and innovative environment.
Fortum’s DEI journey is far from over, but it’s already driving business success and shaping a more sustainable future.
