Career Profile: Stephanie Todd MEnvSci (Hons), FISEP, strategic operational lead for sustainability, Kingston University

Why did you become an environment/sustainability professional?

My passion for sustainability was inspired by a love of the outdoors and David Attenborough documentaries. I had the unique opportunity to study an A-level in environmental studies and did a Nuffield ecology research project on a Site of Special Scientific Interest, which led me to pursue a degree in environmental science and a career in sustainability.

What is your current role and what does it involve?

I am the strategic operational lead for sustainability at Kingston University, responsible for the strategic delivery of the university’s sustainability plan and embedding sustainability across operations. My role covers everything from scope 3 calculations to environmental management systems, as well as collaborating with colleagues to embed sustainability within teaching, learning, research and knowledge exchange.

What is the best part and the most challenging part of your work?

The best part is collaborating with students and staff to drive change. Students really care about sustainability, which reinforces the role of higher education in equipping students to act as sustainability champions. The most challenging part is the constant need to re-engage new student cohorts, which can be resource-intensive.

What is the most important skill for your role?

The ability to consider the wide range of environmental, social and economic impacts when making decisions. Often, there are trade-offs – one decision may benefit the environment but have negative social consequences – so balancing these impacts is essential.

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

I would like to be well established within the ISEP Fellows Network, supporting more women on their Fellowship journey. I also aim to collaborate further on academic research, after publishing a book chapter with colleagues this year.

What advice would you give to someone entering the profession?

Network widely within and beyond the sector to understand different roles and perspectives. Make the most of ISEP webinars and training to support your CPD.

Describe yourself in three words

Determined, enthusiastic and passionate.

What motivates you?

I am motivated to leave things better than I found them, believing small changes can drive wider impact.

Greatest risk you have ever taken?

Professionally, applying for my Fellowship was my biggest recent risk, but luckily it proved worthwhile. Personally, booking a solo trip to Everest Base Camp in 2023 – it was liberating and unforgettable.

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

Marianne North , an English biologist and artist whose vibrant botanical paintings from across the world exhibited at Kew Gardens captivated me from an early age. She defied Victorian convention by embarking on solo trips across the world.

Want to raise your profile?

You can share your career journey on our Green Careers Hub: www.bit.ly/GCHcareer-stories. For details contact: s.maguire@isepglobal.org