“Cultivate soft skills”
Name:
Wing Ki Kwan
Degree:
MSc in Sustainability and Consultancy
Graduated:
2022
Current role:
Climate Risks and Adaptation Manager, NHS Property Services
How are you helping to tackle the climate crisis?
I help tackle the climate crisis by identifying and assessing climate-related risks, developing strategies to adapt to these risks, and implementing measures to reduce vulnerabilities and enhance resilience in properties that my company manage. I also work to integrate climate resilience into planning, policy, and decision-making processes, ensuring that actions are taken to mitigate the impacts of climate change and promote sustainable practices.
How did you get to where you are now?
I began by pursuing a relevant educational background, earning a degree in environmental science and management. After completing my education, I gained practical experience through entry-level positions in organisations focused on climate action and education. This hands-on experience provided me with a foundational understanding of the field.
As I progressed in my career, I continued to build expertise through specialised training, certifications, and additional education. Networking with professionals in the field and attending conferences and seminars played a crucial role in my career development, helping me stay informed about the latest trends and opportunities.
Over time, my dedication to addressing climate-related challenges, along with my acquired knowledge and experience, led me to my current role as a Climate Risk and Adaptation Manager. In this position, I am responsible for identifying and managing climate-related risks and developing strategies to enhance resilience in organisations or communities. My journey reflects a combination of education, experience, continuous learning, and a strong commitment to addressing the impacts of climate change.
What do you do as part of your role?
As a Climate Risk and Adaptation Manager, my responsibilities include identifying and assessing climate-related risks, developing adaptation strategies and action plans, engaging with stakeholders to coordinate efforts, and implementing measures to reduce vulnerabilities and enhance resilience in my company. I also monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of these initiatives, stay updated on climate science and policy developments, and raise awareness about climate-related issues to drive sustainable practices and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I find the most enjoyment in the multifaceted nature of my role. I appreciate the opportunity to engage in complex problem-solving, where I can devise innovative solutions to address the intricate challenges of climate change. The sense of fulfilment I derive from knowing that my work directly contributes to building resilience and sustainability within my organisation or healthcare community is a significant source of satisfaction for me. Collaborating with diverse stakeholders and forging meaningful partnerships is personally rewarding as we work together to create a shared vision for climate resilience.
Additionally, the continuous learning inherent to the field, keeping me informed about the latest developments in climate science, policy, and adaptation strategies, provides ongoing intellectual stimulation. The opportunities to influence decision-making processes and advocate for the adoption of climate-resilient practices across various business functions is a source of pride as I also contribute to addressing the urgent challenges of climate change.
What advice would you give to University of Leeds students wanting to pursue a similar career?
I would recommend gaining practical experience by actively seeking internships, co-op programs, or part-time positions with organisations or government agencies involved in climate resilience and adaptation work, as hands-on experience is invaluable.
Cultivate soft skills like effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are essential for collaborating with diverse stakeholders and implementing adaptation strategies effectively.
Also, you can stay informed about emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in climate risk management and adaptation to remain at the forefront of the field.
Are there any resources that you would recommend to individuals interested in pursuing a climate-related career?
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC): The IPCC website provides comprehensive reports and information on climate science.
Conferences and Events: Attend climate-related conferences and events to meet professionals and learn about the latest developments in the field, such as events organised by IEMA.