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In this episode of The Hydrogen Leader, we sit down with Jens Wulff, CEO for Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and India at Neuman & Esser, to explore what leadership looks like in the middle of the global energy transition and how a company with over 200 years of industrial legacy is shaping the future of green hydrogen production.
From military roots to the boardroom, from piston compressors to PEM electrolyzers, Jens delivers a thoughtful perspective on what it takes to grow a resilient business in the hydrogen sector, even during global uncertainty.
Leadership and Trust in the Hydrogen Industry
Jens emphasizes that leadership is about trust, not titles. For him, effective leadership requires building shared vision, empowering teams, and maintaining accountability across cultures and geographies.
“Trust is the fuel of any relationship. You build it with consistent action — and lose it with one wrong step.”
His values-first leadership, sharpened during his time in the military, has shaped how he manages teams across continents — from Germany to India.
From Fossil to Clean Energy: Neuman & Esser’s Strategic Shift
As a company historically focused on gas compression, Neuman & Esser recognized the need to pivot from fossil-heavy operations to long-term relevance in clean energy and hydrogen energy.
Since 2015, NEA has taken bold steps to diversify its portfolio, investing in electrolyzer technology, hydrogen refueling stations, and large-scale compression for international hydrogen storage and transport.
“We realized we needed to reduce our fossil exposure and support the hydrogen transition — not just by making compressors, but by becoming a full-system partner.”
This strategic move positions NEA among the world hydrogen leaders, with practical impact across infrastructure, engineering, and end-to-end solutions.
Engineering Strength Meets Hydrogen Innovation
NEA’s unique strength lies in its ability to engineer complete hydrogen energy systems — integrating PEM electrolyzers and advanced compression to deliver scalable, efficient solutions.
Jens describes these systems as Siamese twins — where generation and compression must work in harmony to meet real-world demands in storage, mobility, and industrial applications.
The company’s stack-agnostic approach and compressor expertise support everything from hydrogen fuel applications to heavy-duty storage infrastructure.
Global Hydrogen Leadership: Local Action, World Impact
Jens brings a rare global perspective on the hydrogen economy, with insights from projects in Brazil, Namibia, India, and across the European market. He notes that hydrogen demand varies regionally — and so must the solutions.
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In Africa, bankability is key
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In Europe, policy clarity is improving, with support from the Hydrogen Council and national strategies
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In India, workforce development and local production are gaining traction
“We see hydrogen as a global commodity, but we need local execution and trust-based partnerships.”
This global outlook reflects the vision of world hydrogen leaders, aligned with what’s shared at major hydrogen congress events.
Challenges, Insights, and Resilience in the Hydrogen Sector
Despite optimism, Jens is clear-eyed about the challenges facing the hydrogen industry. From regulatory shifts to delayed investments and supply chain strain, resilience is essential.
NEA’s long history, diversified model, and international presence enable it to adapt and lead — not only with technology, but with grounded leadership.
“If it were easy, it wouldn’t be rewarding. Hydrogen is hard because it matters. That’s why it’s worth doing.”
A Message to Future Leaders in Hydrogen and Clean Energy
Jens closes with a clear call to action for young professionals:
“You want to shape a sustainable future? You want to work with purpose? The hydrogen economy is where you belong.”
With passion, experience, and vision, Jens Wulff makes a strong case for why leaders and engineers alike should stay up to date on the global hydrogen landscape — and get involved where they can make the most impact.
His perspective offers actionable intelligence from a world hydrogen leader, helping shape the future of clean energy. The insights and opportunities he shares mirror what’s discussed at global conferences and found in world hydrogen leaders resources.
To learn more, watch the full podcast episode here. If you like the video, please also subscribe The Hydrogen Leader podcast channel to get exclusive insights in leadership, personal growth, and the hydrogen revolution. Join Dr. Björn Lüssow, as he hosts podcast interviews with CEOs, industry leaders, and innovators shaping the clean energy transition.