Elsie Mbugua is a trailblazing energy executive, investor, and global policy advisor with a distinguished career at the nexus of renewable energy, climate finance, and frontier infrastructure investments. As the Founder and Managing Director of Leadwood Energy, she has been a driving force behind transformative energy transactions that are reshaping Africa’s energy landscape and positioning the continent at the forefront of the global energy transition. 

A pioneer in structuring 'first-of-a-kind' energy deals, Elsie has played a critical role in advancing policy, investment, and governance frameworks that fuel Africa’s energy sector. She has advised the Government of Kenya on its crude oil and natural gas prospects, structured the sale of Kenya’s first crude oil cargo, led negotiations for Kenya’s Upstream Crude Project, and developed the framework for a local currency Power Purchase Agreement—groundbreaking milestones that have set precedents in the industry.

Her expertise in global energy markets was forged during a decade-long tenure on Wall Street as an energy trader at Goldman Sachs and J.P. Morgan, where she covered coal, emissions, power, natural gas, and crude oil markets. This deep financial acumen continues to shape her approach to capital-raising strategies for renewable energy projects and climate investments, making her a key architect of Africa’s transition to a low-carbon future. 

Beyond her work in finance and investment, Elsie is a leading voice in energy governance. She served on the Board of the Kenya Pipeline Company, where she chaired the Technical Committee, overseeing multi-billion-dollar capital projects, infrastructure development, and operational governance. Her impact and service to Kenya’s energy sector earned her the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS)—a national honor awarded by H.E. President Uhuru Kenyatta. She has also been recognized with numerous industry accolades, including Young Emerging Energy Leader, East Africa Green Future Leadership Award, Africa’s Most Notable Contribution to the Oil & Gas Sector.

Elsie’s influence extends beyond energy markets into climate resilience and economic empowerment. As the Global Chair of BOMA, Africa’s largest graduation nonprofit, she is leading efforts to eradicate poverty and equip women with climate-resilient livelihoods. She also serves on global advisory boards in the United States and is an active investor in climate tech startups, supporting innovations that drive sustainable energy solutions.

In addition to her leadership in energy and investment, Elsie is the host of Doers Defined, a podcast that amplifies the voices of trailblazers, entrepreneurs, and changemakers who are shaping the future of emerging markets.

Her thought leadership on Africa’s energy transition, climate investment, and sustainable development is widely published in leading industry journals, positioning her as a visionary force shaping the future of energy, policy, and innovation on a global scale.