How did you get to where you are now?
I have a Geography BA from Durham University. During the second year of my degree, I undertook an internship with PwC which helped me to secure a place on their graduate scheme after I finished my degree.
What do you do as part of your role?
I work in the Pharmaceutical and Life Science team, typically on large global transformational projects (e.g. supporting organisation restructuring, process simplification or system implementation). I lead change management teams to help our clients bring their staff along the change journey, ensuring the project is a long-term success.
What skills and characteristics do you need for this role, apart from geographical knowledge?
You need critical thinking, research skills, global awareness and the ability to bring in broader perspectives (social, economic, cultural, political etc.)
How does geography feature in your work/what difference does it make?
Lots of the issues I studied at university I've had the chance to work on in real-time with clients, for example companies trying to adjust to the changes brought on by urban growth or climate change.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love the ability to travel all around the world and work with different cultures, and having the opportunity to work with pharma companies who are pushing to innovate rapidly to improve global health. I get to work on a range of exciting projects, for example using drones to deliver drugs into rural Rwanda.
Do you get to travel for your role?
I've spent most of my time at PwC working in Switzerland, as most of the big global pharma companies are based there. However as most of my projects are global, I've travelled all over the world.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to go in to this career?
I would say try and get some work experience during your time at university. Lots of organisations offer summer internships. Read the news, and start to think about what is happening in the world that is making organisations change and adapt.
How do you maintain your knowledge and interest in geography outside of work?
I keep involved with the RGS-IBG, as well as attending lectures, I also read lots and try to travel as much as I can (I’m actually setting off on a 12 month career break this August in an attempt to cycle from Cape Wrath in Scotland to Cape Town in South Africa).
Why did you choose geography?
I loved the subject – pure and simple.
* This interview was undertaken in 2019 and was correct at the time of publication. Please note that the featured individual may no longer be in role, but the profile has been kept for career pathway and informational purposes.