Career profile: Stephanie Singer BSc (Hons) Env Health, AISEP, AdvDip Mgmt, Dip ESG, environmental director, Quadra Limited

Why did you become an environment/sustainability professional?

About 20 years ago, I became increasingly aware of how rapidly environmental work was changing and how climate issues were starting to make headlines. It became obvious that sustainability was going to shape the future. I wanted a career where I could be part of real solutions.

What is your current role and what does it involve?

I work as a consultant helping organisations to set and turn their sustainability goals into real, actionable plans. That means everything from carbon footprinting and strategy development to delivering training and collaborating with clients to make sure their initiatives are meaningful and achievable. No two days are the same, and that’s what I love about it.

What’s the best part and the most challenging part of your work?

The best part is knowing that I’m making a tangible difference, whether through reducing emissions, improving resource efficiency or supporting conservation initiatives. The most challenging part is driving cultural change within organisations and overcoming resistance to newer, more sustainable ways of operating – but it’s so rewarding when clients have the ‘lightbulb moment’ and realise sustainability is a game changer.

Problem-solving and adaptability are key

What is/are the most important skill(s) for your role?

Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills. Problem-solving and adaptability are key, too, because every client has different goals and challenges.

Where would you like to be in five years’ time?

I would like to be a Full ISEP member and Chartered Environmentalist, leading a dynamic team of sustainability consultants, supporting and making a difference for many more clients across Ireland, Great Britain and beyond. I would like to be delivering impactful strategies and meaningful collaboration to turn bold sustainability goals into action.

What advice would you give to someone entering the profession?

Stay curious and keep learning – the environmental and sustainability sector is constantly evolving. Be persistent and patient; meaningful change often takes time and collaboration.

Describe yourself in three words Hard-working, ambitious, collaborative.

What motivates you?

The opportunity to create positive, lasting impacts for future generations, including for my own daughters. Even small wins, such as helping a company switch to more sustainable practices, feel huge when you know it’s contributing to a bigger picture.

Greatest risk you have ever taken?

Stepping up to become a partner at Quadra while raising a young family – taking on the responsibility of running projects, guiding a team and shaping the company’s direction while juggling family life. It’s challenging but incredibly rewarding, and it’s taught me a lot about balance, leadership and trusting myself.

If you could go back in history, who would you like to meet?

Rachel Carson – she was way ahead of her time on environmental issues and climate change, and actively worked to make change for the better and raise public awareness. I’d love to have coffee with her and talk about how far the movement has come and how far we still have to go.