Genevieve Soh, Climate Impact X

This International Women’s Day (IWD) and Women’s History Month, we’re sharing profiles of some of the outstanding sustainability leaders around the world. Read the profile of Genevieve Soh, Head of Platforms and Ecosystems at Climate Impact X.

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The individuals we’ve interviewed come from a variety of backgrounds and their areas of expertise and responsibility are equally diverse. We’ve learned a lot from them in these conversations and are excited to follow their progress.

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Q: Hello! Tell us a little about what you do at Climate Impact X (CIX).

A: I’m Head of Platforms and Ecosystems at CIX, which is a global carbon exchange and marketplace that aims to scale voluntary carbon markets (VCMs). I’m responsible for managing two teams within CIX:

1. Platforms – this team builds exchange ‘venues’ like our Project Marketplace, a digital marketplace that offers a curated selection of high-quality carbon credits that can meet corporate sustainability objectives; CIX Exchange, a real-time trading platform facilitating two-way spot trade of high-quality credits through standardized contracts in; and an Auction platform. 
2. Ecosystems – this team builds relationships with thought leaders and business alliances globally and distills this thinking into practical applications and effective communication for our community. 
   

Q: Can you tell us a little more about your background and why you chose to work in this space? 

A: I work with a team of brilliant, enthusiastic people who share the same values and beliefs. It’s not often that one gets to wake up and go do a job that doesn’t feel like a job. My team makes me feel that way.

CIX has a mission to make genuine climate impact through VCMs. It’s the core value that drives us. We work hard to ensure that what we do makes a difference in the fight for climate change, whether it’s offering quality carbon credits that ensure real impact, or building a community of buyers to whom we advocate for the responsible use of carbon credits. Done right and done well, I believe that it has the potential to contribute positively to both the industry we work in and the world we live in.

Before joining CIX, I was a Principal with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG). I’d led teams in Southeast Asia and North America on various topics in strategy and go-to-market operations. I was also a Venture Architect Director at BCG Digital Ventures.

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Q: What skills do you think are particularly vital for your role?

A: Listening – VCMs are extremely dynamic. The needs of all players are constantly changing. It’s important that we hear and understand what’s being driven by policymakers, what’s driving the latest technology and projects, what scientists are saying is needed, and how markets are reacting, so that we can move in the right direction to offer relevant solutions. 

Ruthless prioritization – there are only so many hours in a day. As a startup, there are so many things to be built, especially if you want to remain nimble 

Communication – sustainability is a conversation with stakeholders and the effort of a village. We all recognize that we can’t do it alone, but in order to advance our efforts, we need open and transparent communication. 

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Q: Who are your role models?

A: Michelle Obama. I admire and respect her values and how she let her journey shape them. I also admire how she uses her platform to support, engage, and encourage not just women, but anyone who is trying to find themselves and their purpose.

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Q: What advice would you give to the next generation of women starting their careers in this space?

A: Just get started. If you don’t take the first step, nothing can happen. Be open to learning. Never stop listening, asking.