DYNAMIC LEADERSHIP: MAŁGORZATA SMUCZYŃSKA

Małgorzata isn't just one of the 15 most influential women in Poland's energy sector—she is a visionary whose deep technical expertise and leadership are fueling the transition toward sustainable energy solutions.
Her career is a testament to dedication: from earning a PhD in agricultural sciences with a focus on environmental protection, to serving as a board member of EHPA and CEO of ESBE Hydronic Systems Sp. z o.o.. Her expertise is rare and valuable.
Since May 2023, Małgorzata has been a driving force at ESBE, where she is responsible for regional sales and leads the company in Poland. Her background as a board member of the European Heat Pump Association (EHPA) and Vice President of the Polish Organisation for Heat Pump Technology (PORT PC) demonstrates her commitment to promoting climate neutrality. 
From environmental PhD to executive leadership, Małgorzata (by many, called Gosia) shares her journey, the political hurdles she navigates daily, and the fervent passion that fuels her work in climate policy and technology. Read the full interview below:
What do you feel when you see your name on a list of the 15 most influential women in Polish energy?
-    I feel honored to be recognized in this distinguished group of women. It's great to have a mission, and even better when someone notices it. Working for companies promoting renewable energy sources and now ESBE, with components for renewable energy equipment and installations, has given me the opportunity to make a real impact on improving air quality. This quickly became my life's mission, which I pursue with even greater passion in associations like PORT PC and EHPA.
 

Is there a particular milestone in your career that you feel contributed most to this recognition?
−    The milestones I remember most are obtaining a doctoral degree, obtaining the qualification of an energy auditor, preparing an energy plan for the Podlasie region, an award for communication in the field of heat pumps, teaching postgraduate students at the University of Technology, elections to the boards of PORT PC and EHPA, promotion to Director of the Renewable Energy Department and finally CEO of a manufacturing company. But what made me stand out on the list? I think it's the vast number of publications, articles, and conference presentations that are a legacy of my work promoting renewable energy sources, especially my beloved heat pumps, which have been recognized as BAT (Best Available Technology) for heating and cooling buildings. However, none of this would have been possible without the support of my family and loved ones, my superiors, colleagues, and the entire industry. Without this support, none of this would have been possible.
What are you most proud of in your career? 
−    I'm most proud of the fact that my activism, energy, and commitment are noticed by others. That I inspire trust, and together we manage to make even a small impact on the development of renewable energy.

How does your scientific background in environmental engineering shape your leadership and vision as CEO of ESBE in Poland?
−    My engineering education gave me knowledge of installation, plumbing, drawings, and technical designs. All of this gives me a deep understanding of the needs of both the industry and consumers. I can educate and train but also communicate the benefits of technology and products in an accessible way. 
 

What is your core driving force in promoting heat pumps and climate neutrality?
−    Probably my children. I often think about their future and what kind of world future generations will live in. Caring for our planet and the environment is crucial for them to live healthily and enjoy the nature and beauty of this world. This is my driving force, and it's perfectly exemplified by Captain Planet, my fairytale hero, who joins forces with the planetarians to save the world 😊.
With your EHPA experience, how can ESBE best support the sustainable heating transition in Poland and Europe?
−    ESBE and the products developed by its R&D department are used by many European heat pump manufacturers, both as components for heat pumps but also as system solutions that facilitate installation. Knowledge of the European market, the implemented legislation supporting the energy transition, the barriers and expectations of European manufacturers helps in the development of technologies, thanks to which we collectively contribute to the energy transition, ensuring high energy efficiency, savings, climate neutrality, and increasingly higher thermal comfort. Working at ESBE, I can support not just one manufacturer but many manufacturers offering ecological heating and cooling technologies. I reach a wide range of installers, facilitating and accelerating the implementation of innovative solutions.
What does a normal " Gosia workday" look like?
−    Like any manager, I spent over 50% of my working time to managing the company. I strive to support all employees in their daily work, from marketing, through technical consulting, customer service, and regional managers. During team meetings, we develop strategies and ideas that will help us grow the company and, of course, increase sales. I travel a lot and have many meetings with customer and industry colleagues. I try to regularly attend board meetings at ESBE and the two associations I'm involved in. From time to time, I participate in debates and give some prelections, trainings or interviews (which always stress me out), but it also gives me great satisfaction.