"Axis gave me the chance to develop a new skillset"

After you graduated, you worked for a variety of employers – tell us a bit about them and how they got you where you are today.
My first job was for Conwy Council, in the borough where I grew up in North Wales. It was a Planning Officer role, and though, as a new graduate, it was a useful first stepping stone into employment, I came to realise I’d be better suited in the private sector. I was young and keen to make change happen. I wanted to work in environments that allowed for agile thinking, problem-solving and innovation.

So you decided to move?
Yes, I did some research and came across The Environment Partnership (TEP), a multi-disciplinary consultancy in Warrington. Their focus on large infrastructure projects and environmental planning really interested me, so I applied and got a job with them as an Environmental Planning Consultant. It was a good move at the right time – I was exposed to an array of different experiences and scenarios far more interesting than my previous role. I greatly increased my knowledge of infrastructure planning and EIA and realised I’d found a specialist area within planning that I really enjoyed. I spent almost ten years there and I owe a lot of who I am, professionally, to them. My time there really shaped how I approach my work.

You clearly enjoy learning – how has Axis has helped you expand your knowledge?
I was selected to work with a long term client of Axis, on a project called The Core Valley Lines Transformation. The Welsh Government identified the need to greatly improve the frequency of services and upgrade the railway network between Cardiff, and the valley towns of Aberdare, Coryton, Merthyr Tydfil, Rhymney and Treherbert in line with its vision of providing an accessible and sustainable transport system. So my job is to secure the relevant planning permissions for these works including overhead line electrification works, new and upgraded track, existing station upgrades and new stations.

Although I had plenty of experience in infrastructure previously, I hadn’t worked on a rail project before. This was a brilliant opportunity where Axis gave me the chance to develop a new skillset, trusted me to crack on with it, and now I’ve got another string to my bow. These opportunities along with Axis’ ‘small company big projects’ approach, are what I enjoy most about working here.

And finally, what three tips would you give other professionals looking to follow in your footsteps?

1. Nobody knows everything, workplace environments are a mix of people with different knowledge, experience, and backgrounds, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.
2. Problem solving is generally easier and more effective when you make genuine efforts to understand what the other parties want. I try to put myself in their shoes and not solely think about my own objectives – it’s a difficult skill and one I try to remember and develop as often as I can.
3. Perfection doesn’t really exist so don’t expend unnecessary amounts of time trying to get there; however, being really organised and calm will enable you to identify your priorities and deliver really good work for your clients.