Jenny Downie
What employment sector do you work in?
Private Sector
How long have you had a green job for nature?
10 years
Salary Range
£40,001 – £50,000
Please describe the work that you do.
My responsibilities include fieldwork (about once a month), technical assessment, project design inputs, project management, and leading ecology services. I undertake and support others to prepare PEAs and EcIAs of proposed developments in different locations across Scotland.
I’m a line manager and a people champion for the UK ecology team – this platform enables me to engage with ecologists across all offices and grades and the leadership team on relevant topics around feeling valued.
What do you most like about your job? Any dislikes?
Getting the grey matter going by thinking about the ecology of a species to understand how they may be affected by a proposed development and then challenging ways to avoid or minimise effects. Detailed botanical surveys in the remote uplands of Scotland. Continuing to learn about emerging best practices, research, and policies – and practical ways to apply it. Supporting others with their own development. Creating and contributing to team initiatives that create a positive and inclusive culture.
Change management can be frustrating – but inevitable and regularly part of any role in consultancy.
What inspired you into this career?
The opportunity to undertake fieldwork and develop skills and experience in understanding our native flora and fauna.
Have you faced any challenges in progressing your career so far?
As an ECP, after 1.5 years in my first role and feeling like I had started a great career, the role was made redundant. It wasn’t until I interviewed for a new role in my current company (a few months later) that the spark was reignited. Since then, I have been fortunate to always feel supported and empowered by those around me and able to stretch myself.
What education/training did you have?
BSc (Hons) Zoology
What advice would you give to someone coming into the profession?
Try to find a purpose rather than a job, to get the most out of what you do, be able to enjoy it, and contribute to the best of your abilities. Purpose can be found in day to day tasks, projects as a whole, and over the course of your short-term or longer-term career goals.
Join CIEEM and your local member network and any special interest groups you like the sound of – then get yourself along to any events you can.
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Tags: Scotland, Private sector, Ecologist, Ecological consultant
Date profile submitted: 21/08/2024
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