Simone Medonos
Simone's Story
What is your role at Ricardo?
I lead Environmental Assessments across different projects and plans. In recent years I have specialised in Strategic Environmental Assessment.
What does your average day at Ricardo look like?
I work part time from home in Edinburgh (Edinburgh’s seaside!); before work I go for a walk along the promenade (I also like to support local coffee vendors!) or go to a yoga class and then settle into my home office. I initially check emails, plan my day and then get stuck in! There are a couple of regular Teams meetings in the calendar every week, but every day is quite different for me and depends on project priorities and client requirements.
What do you look forward to at work?
I like completing tasks and feeling like I have done a good job; I recently finished an environmental assessment that had me working most days of the week (despite only contracted to work 22.5 hours!). I am happy to put the hours in to problem solve, help others and gain that sense of achievement.
What do you find most rewarding at work? / Are you proud to work at Ricardo?
As above, that sense of achievement is key for me. I also really value the flexibility at Ricardo and working part-time allows me to have a good work-life balance.
What was your team’s latest achievement and how was it celebrated?
Our team achievements are often written up in the weekly Friday news that is circulated in the wider Water team.
How have you developed your career at Ricardo?
Whilst not directly through Ricardo, I am currently working towards Fellow member with IEMA (I am currently a Full Member and Chartered Environmentalist). I am supported by a mentor through IEMA. With Ricardo, I hope to attend and present at the International Association for Impact Assessment Conference next year in Dublin.
How do you support career development opportunities for your team?
In Ricardo, I have reviewed and supported colleagues’ applications for promotion and also helped them with their professional accreditations.
What do you most enjoy about working with your team?
As a Technical Lead I like it best when I can trust that the work is in safe hands and that it will get handled to a high standard and delivered on time. I also like exchanging ideas and discussing issues with other team members to gain different perspectives.
What opportunities do you have at Ricardo to share your knowledge or expertise?
I have been a Guest Lecturer for MSc students in Environmental Assessment at The University of Manchester; an opportunity afforded to me by Ricardo.
If you have had a career break, how has Ricardo supported your return to work?
I haven’t had a career break at Ricardo, but I have taken two sabbaticals prior to joining Ricardo and highly recommend some time out to explore the world.
What advice would you give to anyone considering a career as a Principal Consultant?
Think about what interests you and keep it in the front of your mind. Don’t just settle for a job and don’t ever feel like you are stuck somewhere; you always have prospects and there is always something interesting you could be doing; follow your curiosity.