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Alice Slattery

Natural Capital Consultant
What employment sector do you work in?

Private sector

How long have you had a green job for nature?

4 years

Please describe the work that you do.

I am a Natural Capital Consultant based in Edinburgh, working for Savills Natural Capital team. I specialise in habitat restoration and ecosystem service analysis across the UK. My role varies from client and stakeholder meetings in the office to surveys, sampling, and site walkovers in the field. I manage projects from initial conception to successful completion, including grant applications, feasibility studies, opportunity assessments, restoration and monitoring plans, and contractor oversight. I also evaluate nature finance options and have experience with both compliance and voluntary nature markets across the UK, including Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), the Peatland Carbon Code, and the Woodland Carbon Code.

What do you most like about your job? Any dislikes?

I enjoy collaborating with colleagues across disciplines, e.g., energy, food and farming, estate management, and more, to deliver projects that go beyond client expectations. I particularly value the variety of projects I work on and appreciate how they align with my personal commitment to caring for and enhancing nature.

I dislike when essential project data is delayed, as this can impact delivery. However, an adaptable mindset and open communication usually help to minimise any negative effects.

What inspired you into this career? 

Growing up in the Lake District gave me an appreciation for upland landscapes and an understanding of the environmental challenges these areas face, such as poor water quality, flooding, and unsustainable land management. At university, I studied Earth Sciences at Durham University and specialised in water management, with my master’s research focusing on the sustainable remediation of abandoned metal mine leachate in the North Pennines and Wales. This led me to start my career in the Water Management Consultancy at AtkinsRéalis before joining Savills.

Have you faced any challenges in progressing your career so far? 

I was promoted from a Graduate role to an Assistant role at AtkinsRéalis within 18 months, and moved to Savills after three years in the sector.

What education/training did you have?

I studied MSci Earth Sciences (Environmental Geoscience) at Durham University. I am working towards chartership with CIWEM and I am an accredited RCA surveyor (Modular River Survey).

A-Levels: Biology, Chemistry and Maths.

What advice would you give to someone coming into the profession? 

Volunteer at local conservation events to gain practical experience, build knowledge, and connect with like-minded people. Keep learning through books, podcasts, and other resources in your areas of interest.

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Tags: Scotland, Private sector, Ecological consultant, Environmental adviser, Freshwater/Catchment, Natural Capital adviser

Date profile submitted: 20/10/2025

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