Elizabeth Penhalber

My first job after finishing university was as a microbiologist at a brewery in Brazil, eventually moving into their environmental division.  As a biologist, I have always been interested in the environment, especially on the social side of things.  I became interested in consulting when I attended an interview with ERM and realized that working in this field would enable me to make a difference in helping companies address sustainability issues.  I learned I would work on projects similar to those in my industry role, such as implementing ISO14001, and thought “I can do this.” It’s now eight years later, and I have never looked back. 
 
Being challenged to grow and diversify
Senior colleagues are continually encouraging me to try new things and challenge my skills.  No two months are the same as I can be working on developing an oil spill contingency plan for one client and then will be asked to work on a plan to integrate environmental management across a range of operations for a manufacturing company.  You never know what the next client will need, but I find it particularly rewarding to help companies with their sustainability issues as it gives my work a real sense of value.

Since joining ERM, I have become a manager in my field of expertise and I am continually growing professionally.  I am currently in the training program to become a Partner, which will enable me to make a real difference in implementing change and have a direct role in taking the company forward. 

Being part of a global team
Communication between ERM offices in different countries has definitely increased and improved since I joined.  While some people still work very much within their own regions, many areas, especially our Social Consulting Services and Sustainable Development practices, are increasingly more connected.

My proudest moments are when I’ve worked especially hard to do a great job, and a client sends an email or acknowledges our team’s efforts in a meeting.  Positive feedback from fellow team members is also important to me – a recent survey reported that my team thinks I am doing a good job, feedback which means a great deal.