The electric vehicle industry is not just about vehicles and infrastructure—it's about the people and skills powering this transformation. In a recent interview with us, Lindsay Warren, Founder & Managing Director of Net Zero Evolution and a leader in recruitment for the clean technology and EV sectors, shared his insights on how the right talent is critical to the success of the EV revolution.

#LEVS: As a recruitment and executive search leader in transport decarbonisation, what key skills and qualifications do you believe are most critical for professionals working in the EV and clean technology sectors? 

#Lindsay Warren: In the EV and clean technology sectors, technical skills are essential, especially around electrical engineering, software development, and battery technologies. However, I also see the growing importance of interdisciplinary skills like data analysis, project management, and an understanding of sustainability principles. As the industry evolves rapidly, adaptability is crucial—professionals need to be able to learn and integrate new technologies quickly. Additionally, soft skills such as collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving are vital as the sector is often tackling challenges no one has faced before.

#LEVS: How does your role at Net Zero Heroes contribute to advancing the adoption of EVs and clean technologies, and what successes have you seen in matching talent with opportunities in these fields? 

#Lindsay Warren: Net Zero Heroes is all about inspiring the next generation to explore the opportunities available in industries like EV charging and clean tech. We engage with schools to create awareness and excitement around these sectors. Through our efforts, we’ve successfully matched talent with companies that are on the cutting edge of transport decarbonisation. One of our most significant successes has been helping businesses build teams that drive the deployment of EV charging infrastructure, where the right talent can make a massive difference to the speed of adoption. By working with students and young professionals, we’re cultivating the workforce that will shape the future of the green economy.

#LEVS: What are the most significant trends you are observing in the EV industry across North America, Europe, and the UK, and how do these trends impact the recruitment and development of talent in the sector? 

#Lindsay Warren: Across all regions, the shift toward rapid EV infrastructure expansion is evident, with governments and companies investing heavily in EV charging networks. In North America, there’s a big push toward public-private partnerships to achieve ambitious EV adoption targets, which is generating high demand for technical and operational roles. In Europe, the regulatory landscape around emissions and sustainability is driving innovation, and we’re seeing growth in the demand for professionals skilled in battery energy storage and grid integration. In the UK, the focus is on ensuring that the workforce has the necessary skills for large-scale deployment of EV infrastructure, particularly as we face a looming skills gap. These trends require talent that not only has technical expertise but also a mindset geared towards innovation and sustainability.

#LEVS: How can companies and organisations in the EV and clean technology industries better attract and retain top talent to drive innovation and growth in the sector? 

#Lindsay Warren: Attracting and retaining talent in the EV and clean tech industries requires companies to be proactive about creating a strong employer brand that resonates with today’s workforce. Young professionals are looking for more than just a good salary—they want to be part of something meaningful. Companies that promote their role in combating climate change and offer career growth opportunities tend to attract more passionate candidates. Retaining top talent is equally crucial, and that involves creating a culture of continuous learning, offering flexible work environments, and creating a real sense of purpose in the workplace. Mentorship programs and clear career progression paths are also effective ways to keep employees engaged and invested in the company’s mission.

#LEVS: In your view, what role do Global events like the London EV Show play in accelerating the transition to EVs and renewable energy? 

#Lindsay Warren: Global events like the London EV Show are invaluable for accelerating the transition to EVs and renewable energy. They bring together key stakeholders—manufacturers, policymakers, investors, and innovators—who can collaborate, share ideas, and showcase cutting-edge technologies. These events help drive innovation and launch partnerships that might not otherwise happen. They also provide a platform for discussing the challenges we face, like the skills gap or supply chain issues, and for finding collective solutions. For attendees, especially those in recruitment or workforce development like myself, it’s an opportunity to understand the emerging needs of the industry and connect with the talent that will help the sector grow.