Role: Assistant Consultant

Career Area: Transport Strategy and Planning

Location: Dublin

My role at SYSTRA

In my role as an Assistant Consultant at SYSTRA, I get to dig into data and help craft smart transport strategies.

My work involves organising information, writing up reports and sitting in on client meetings to make sure we’re hitting the mark. But it’s not all about the numbers – working with a talented team is a big part of it also.

We all learn from each other, bond over team-building activities and really push each other to come up with innovative solutions. It’s a dynamic environment that leads to better project outcomes and keeps us growing.

My career journey

It started with an undergraduate degree in Political Science, which got me interested in how policies shape our world. I also took classes in Urban Geography which sparked my love for urbanism and transport networks. After completing my undergrad degree, I then completed an MSc in Smart and Sustainable Cities at Trinity College Dublin, where I took modules in Transport Engineering, Computer Science and more Urban Geography.

As part of the course’s work placement module, I worked on active travel projects in rural Ireland with a consultancy firm based in Dublin. When I saw a job opening at SYSTRA, I jumped at the chance because I felt the business focus matched my interests and skillset perfectly.

We asked Cian…
When did you realise this was the career path for you?

I realised soon after completing my undergraduate degree that I wanted a career where I could make a tangible difference in the world. This realisation guided me towards the field of transport strategy and planning, where I could combine my interests in policy, urbanism and sustainable development to help contribute to impactful and beneficial solutions. Working at SYSTRA has given me the opportunity to fulfil this wish by engaging in projects that not only improve transport systems, but also promote environmental sustainability on a global scale. 

Have you got any words of wisdom for someone starting out in a similar role?

If you’re just starting out in a similar role, I’d say it’s important to be yourself and trust your gut. Bringing your authentic self to work means you can offer fresh ideas and perspectives. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and go after opportunities that really excite you. This way, you’ll not only grow in your career but also find real satisfaction in the impact you make.

How does SYSTRA stand out from the rest as a great place to work?

SYSTRA stands out for a variety of positive reasons. Firstly, it is a fantastic place to work because of its friendly and collaborative atmosphere. The business really pushes colleagues to keep learning and growing, with plenty of opportunities to tackle new challenges. 

What sets SYSTRA apart is how it weaves sustainability and inclusivity into everything it does for clients. You get to be part of projects that make a real impact, making transport systems greener and more accessible for everyone. Plus, working with a team that values different perspectives keeps things fresh and rewarding every day.

With such power in diversity, what unique perspective do you bring to the table?

I bring a unique perspective to the table through my inquisitive nature and eagerness to learn. I’m always looking for different ways to go about tasks, which makes me good at problem-solving. I also pride myself on being a strong communicator, and I really enjoy collaborating with others. This combination helps me contribute fresh ideas and work effectively with diverse teams to find innovative solutions within a variety of projects across the business.

Where is the place that has inspired you the most?

Rome is the place that’s inspired me the most. I love how the city mixes the ancient with the modern, showing how history and innovation can coexist. Its metro, tram and bus systems are really efficient and highlight how a city can respect its past whilst simultaneously moving forward.

What does true sustainability really mean to you?

True sustainability is about being resilient and reliable. It’s about building systems that last and can handle whatever comes their way. It also means making sure everyone is included and benefits from sustainable practices. It’s not just about saving resources; it’s about creating communities where everyone can thrive.

What would a green future look like?

For me, a green future is one where we really think about the consequences of our actions and how they impact our environment. It’s a future that puts nature first and prioritises the health of our planet. It’s also a future that promotes open and fair dialogue about how we address environmental challenges, ensuring everyone has a voice in creating sustainable solutions.

How do you look after your wellbeing outside of work?

To look after my wellbeing outside of work, I enjoy cycling and diving into a good book. These activities provide a great balance between my time at the laptop and moments of relaxation. Occasionally I travel, usually exploring different places in Europe, which offers a refreshing change of scenery and new experiences. This time off helps me clear my mind and return to work with renewed focus and energy, ready to tackle new challenges.

If you could spend your lunchbreak with someone you really admire, who would you choose?

If I could spend my lunchbreak with someone I really admire, it would be Jan Gehl. He’s a Danish architect and urban design consultant known for his work on improving the quality of urban life by reorienting city design towards pedestrians and cyclists. Gehl is passionate about creating people-friendly cities that prioritise human interaction and sustainability. I’d love to chat with him about his experiences and insights on urban design, and how we can make our cities more sustainable and enjoyable for everyone.

If you had to pick, which mode of transport would you use for the rest of your life?

If I had to pick one mode of transport to use for the rest of my life, it would be rail. There’s something incredibly relaxing about watching the world go by through a train window. Railways simplify life in a way – choices are made for you, courses are mapped out, and paths already plotted. It’s a mode of transport where the direction is always forward, and I find that both comforting and inspiring.

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