'I like walking meetings - they keep the energy flowing'

Describe your perfect day at work

For me, the perfect day is when conversations turn into action. I love seeing people debate with open minds, reach conclusions, and feel energised by the outcome. It’s even better when departments that don’t normally see themselves as part of the sustainability journey start to feel motivated and find purpose in it. That’s when the real magic happens.

I also thrive on creativity and collaboration, so any day where people are willing to embrace change - because sustainability is all about continuous improvement - is a win in my book.

How do you respond when your day gets off to a bad start?

I always go for a walk and start again. Whether it’s something inside or outside of work that’s thrown me off, I find a change of scene resets my head. If the bad start comes from a meeting or dynamic at work, I’ll often reframe things - maybe the next meeting will be a walk and-talk or I’ll tweak the questions I ask people. It’s about shaking things up and giving yourself the chance to reset.

Do you have any work rituals?

I’m a big tick-off-the-list person. Sustainability involves so many moving parts across different departments, so writing things down and prioritising is key for me. I also like to summarise meetings as soon as they finish, before the details fade. And yes, whenever possible, I like walking meetings - they keep the energy flowing.

How do you stay focused?

Coffee helps, although I suspect that might be more psychological than physical! Water is just as important. But mostly it’s about short, sharp bursts of focus with regular breaks in between. That way, when I sit down to do something, I can give it my full attention.

How do you unwind?

Art is my outlet - I paint and draw, often watercolours or sketches, sometimes outside in the park, sometimes at a studio. Beyond that, I like to slow things down: reading, cooking, or simply sitting outside with a coffee. Work can be very fast-paced, so I look for ways to take in information at a gentler speed

Delegator or doer?

I think I’m a mix. I’m definitely a doer, but collaboration is huge for me. I like bringing in people who are experts in areas I’m not. I’d say I’m a doer and a collaborator rather than a classic delegator.

What’s on your work Spotify playlist?

Instrumental all the way. If I listen to lyrics, I get distracted and start analysing them! My go to is usually deep focus music – low-fi beats or anything without words. One artist I love is Khruangbin, they always help me find that flow state.

What song gets you motivated no matter what?

Congo by Hani. It has the upbeat tone I need to get going, and like I said, I’m influenced by rhythm and speed, so anything with energy works for me.

How many meetings do you have every day?

It varies. Wednesdays are usually my busiest with up to six meetings - midweek seems to be the sweet spot when everyone wants to connect. Tuesdays and Thursdays are usually two or three meetings, while Fridays I try to keep free for focused work.

WFH – triumph or disaster?

A triumph, when done right. I like a balance. Being in the office gives me connection and creativity but working from home - especially on Fridays when I have fewer meetings - lets me focus deeply without interruptions

What’s your dream job?

Honestly, it’s the one I have now. I’ve worked towards a role that combines creativity, collaboration, and sustainability, and gives me space to shape how it’s embedded across the organisation. I do have a background in microplastics science, and I still love hands-on work in ecological spaces, so any role that combines environment, community, and creativity will always be my dream job