Company: GXO
Role: Environmental Manager UK & Ireland
After completing a degree in Environmental Geography, followed by a Masters in Climate Change Science and Policy, Lottie tried roles in consultancy and app development before landing a job which focused on driving corporate sustainability.
With family members who work in logistics and a good grounding from her studies, she recognised that the fast-paced, multi-tasking environment the sector offered could be a good fit for her. Responsible for developing and driving GXO’s Sustainability Strategy across the UK and Ireland, working in logistics has proved to be much more complex than Lottie imagined:
“I hadn’t set foot in a warehouse. The complexities of the logistics industry fascinate me. To be at the forefront of the conversations around alternative fuels, renewable energy and sustainable initiatives is very exciting.”
While on the job, Lottie has received her associate membership for IEMA Environmental Management, and is working towards achieving her Practitioners’ membership, both fully supported and sponsored by management. She has also completed her IOSH Managing Safely Course.
Opportunities to continue her personal development is something she considers crucial from an employer, and when considering the best aspects of her role, Lottie emphasises her ability to drive change.
“Having exposure to senior leadership teams to make a difference feels great. I love communicating all the exciting work we’re doing to customers and hearing first-hand where they are in their journey to becoming net zero.”
When asked what she’d say to someone considering a career in logistics, Lottie emphasises the opportunity to grow:
“There are so many areas across the logistics industry that specific attributes can be applied to. Don’t worry if you enter a role that isn’t your ‘dream job’. Learning key skills and attributes that can be applied to other roles is often the most important thing. Embrace the challenges and engage with as many projects and people as possible.”