Welcome to 3Keel! How has it been so far?

It’s been a really enjoyable first couple of weeks at 3Keel, everyone has been really welcoming and supportive in helping me settle in. I’ve already started to get involved in project work but have also managed to find time to spend a day volunteering with other 3Keelers at the charity FarmAbility, where we helped fit insulation to a new barn.

What have you started working on?

Initially, I’ve spent time getting to know my new colleagues, who’ve all been really welcoming, and beginning to build my understanding of the sustainable commodities area and the projects I’ll be working on. I’ve just begun work on a data services programme in which we are working with our clients and their suppliers to gather key supply chain information on palm, soy, cocoa and coffee. I’ll be focusing mainly on palm, but I also have some responsibilities for managing a couple of our clients which is really exciting.

What are you looking forward to most about working for 3Keel?

I’m really looking forward to immersing myself in the wide range of work 3Keel is involved in and playing my part in supporting our collective effort in tackling important sustainability challenges. Moreover, I’m excited about the opportunities to learn from colleagues and clients who have such diverse and interesting experiences and backgrounds.

Who or what inspired you to work in sustainability?

During my university studies I began to develop a real interest in sustainability and the need for more sustainable solutions across food production to meet the growing challenges we face. Whilst completing my PhD I was fortunate enough to take part in the IFSTAL (Interdisciplinary Food Systems Teaching and Learning) programme, which further drove my interest in food systems and sustainability. IFSTAL highlighted the different ways to approach and tackle complex sustainability issues, inspiring me to look to build a career in this area.

When you’re not working, what do you like to do?

In my spare time I take part in several sporting activities. I swim (and occasionally compete) with Kenilworth Masters SC, as well as play tag rugby and cricket. When I’m not in the pool or running around a field, I’m trying (very slowly) to learn Catalan – “Adeu i fins aviat”.

Where’s the photo taken?

This is at the “Travertines of Pamukkale”, Turkey. Basically, they’re natural forming terraces that have formed from the mineral deposits from hot thermal springs. Looks like snow or is described as Cotton castles. It’s beside an ancient Roman city called Hierapolis, and the spring waters are considered to have healing properties. We had to get up early to beat the tourist rush, so it was mostly just us and the instagram crowds at that time, 7am!