I started at Steer in April 2000. I’d moved here from Adelaide, Australia to take a break from my government job and do some travelling. I liked my job and had every intention of returning after twelve months. That was 18 years ago!
I had an economics degree and had recently obtained my ASCPA (practising accountant certification). The move was much harder than I had thought it would be. The craziness of London, a move to the private sector and a totally unfamiliar transport geography were difficult to deal with. I was not a transport planner and was unsure if my skills would ever fit. And I’d never been a consultant and didn’t really know what that entailed. But I was lucky that I found a company where I genuinely work with some of the world’s best transport experts and people were happy to spend the time with me to nurture my development both in terms of technical ability and consultancy skills. Before long I could talk people through a transport model, report on the risks of forecasts, manage consultation programmes and lead client presentations.
After ten years of mostly working outside of London on some amazing studies and projects, I decided I would spend more time closer to home. At this point, I had the opportunity to get more involved in the leadership of the business side of Steer. It seemed like a great way to give something back to the company and the individuals who had been so generous with their care and time. I now get to be the Chief Operating Officer of our global business. My aim is to make sure that the people who work here get the access to opportunities that enable them to be the best them.
I still love the consultancy work though and recently I’ve participated in our work looking at pedestrianizing Oxford Street and reviewed the infrastructure needs of London for the National Infrastructure Commission amongst other interesting assignments.