“I work with some brilliant people and have a positive impact”

Why does sustainability matter to you?

I’ve always been interested in how our surroundings affect us, whether that's the built environment or the natural environment. When I was younger, I’d walk and cycle around my own town and think about the things I can change or make better. So, I think that led me to work in real estate and sustainability. I get a chance to improve people’s day to day lives but also solve some really important global challenges as well.

What has been the highlight of your career?

I've been really lucky to be involved with a few firsts, including building a social impact service line from scratch. That was something that just hasn't been done in the real estate industry before in terms of measuring the social impact of a building, delivering sustainability master planning advice for the first time, and looking at a brand-new project — a brand-new city district — and how that can be sustainable. And more recently, I’ve been working with some impact investment funds, which are looking to have a financial return and a positive social or environmental impact.

What would you say to someone considering a career in sustainability?

If you’re thinking about a career in sustainability, absolutely do it. I've been really lucky to have a rewarding career working with some brilliant people and having a positive impact. But also, I'd say think about embracing change and uncertainty. Sustainability is such a new industry, there are millions of unanswered questions and new opportunities. So, no two days are the same and you never know what's coming around the corner.