---
title: Kate Lissaman
url: "https://www.systra.com/ireland/careers/our-colleagues/kate-lissaman/"
type: page
date_published: 2023-06-22
date_modified: 2025-03-18
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language: en-IE
word_count: 1482
reading_time: 8 min
canonical: "https://www.systra.com/ireland/careers/our-colleagues/kate-lissaman/"
featured_image: "https://www.systra.com/ireland/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2023/05/personal-story-website-header.jpg"
---

# Kate Lissaman

![Kate Lissaman](https://www.systra.com/ireland/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2023/05/personal-story-website-header.jpg)

![Kate Lissaman Career Profile picture](https://www.systra.com/ireland/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2023/06/kate-lissaman-career-profile-picture-cropped-300x300.jpg)

**Role**: Assistant Project Manager

**Career Area**: Project and Commercial Management

**Location**: York

###### My role at SYSTRA

I am an Assistant Project Manager in the Consultancy Project Management Office
(PMO), and I contribute to the work of the PMO by identifying and developing
baseline delivery budgets, project progress reviews, and data updates.

I am involved with invoicing, commercial compliance and liaising with Project
Managers across the project portfolio to support delivery activities and project
administration.

On a day-to-day basis I assist Project Managers in their project monitoring and
reporting, allowing them to focus more on their technical roles and client
discussions, in support of effective business operations.

###### My career journey

I actually had the privilege of attending a Q&A session with the board of
Directors – the Digital Roadshow 2021. During the session, our HR Director
shared some valuable insights on career development and job opportunities within
the company. She emphasised the importance of internal recruitment and
encouraged us to initiate discussions surrounding any interests we may have for
different areas of the business. Taking her advice, I reached out to our
Consultancy Operations Director to discuss my career development goals.

With the guidance I received, I explored the world of Project Management and the
vision for the PMO. The exploration instilled confidence in me and highlighted
the surplus of opportunities for career advancement within SYSTRA. I also gained
insight on other areas I could become more involved with.

###### We asked Kate…

###### When did you realise this was the career path for you?

My first conversation with Nicola Cholmondeley (Consultancy Operations Director)
was very inspiring. As a female leader in a male-dominated industry, her
perspective on what can be achieved in the world of Project Management was truly
eye-opening. Nicola conveyed that there are endless opportunities for growth and
development in this field and I felt a newfound sense of excitement and
motivation about my own potential career path. Her insights and encouragement
have left a lasting impression on me, and I am very grateful for the valuable
advice and guidance she has provided. It is empowering to see strong female
leaders like Nicola who are paving the way for the next generation of project
professionals.

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

As a project professional, it’s important to constantly seek out new
opportunities for growth and development. One way to achieve this is by putting
yourself out there, engaging in discussion with colleagues and peers, and
becoming an active member of a professional organisation. In doing so you will
gain access to a wealth of resources and opportunities to support your continued
professional development. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and approach new
challenges with a curious and inquisitive mindset. Embrace the opportunity to
learn and grow and you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.

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

I have been pleasantly surprised by the unwavering support that SYSTRA has shown
me in terms of my professional development. Over the past two years, I have been
fortunate enough to have numerous opportunities for growth and advancement and
for that I am incredibly grateful. This level of support has not only helped me
to achieve my goals but has also left me feeling highly motivated, valued, and
proud to be a part of the SYSTRA team. The company’s commitment to investing in
its employees is truly inspiring and I am honoured to be a part of such a
forward-thinking and supportive organisation.

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

The saying, “_In a world where you can be anything, be kind_” rings true now
more than ever. We never truly know what someone else is going through, or the
challenges they may be facing. As someone who works in Project Management, I
know first-hand how trying it can be. Yet, it’s not always the problem itself
that determines our success, but rather our response to it. The key to success
in Project Management lies in our ability to listen to others, treat people with
respect and communicate effectively. By prioritising kindness and empathy, we
can build stronger relationships and work more collaboratively towards our
goals. In doing so, we not only create a more positive working environment, but
we also set ourselves up for greater success in the long run.

###### Where is the place that has inspired you the most?

I recently travelled to Canada, visiting friends who have moved to Toronto and
Montreal. They both work for SYSTRA Canada, and I was lucky enough to receive a
guided tour of their offices and learn about some of the project work they’re
involved in. I was thrilled to hear about a companywide initiative that will
soon offer employees the opportunity to work in other SYSTRA offices, gaining
valuable technical expertise and knowledge in the process. As someone who is
always eager to learn and grow, this in an opportunity that I would be keen to
explore. The chance to work alongside other talented professionals in different
parts of the world is a very exciting prospect!

###### What does true sustainability really mean to you?

Sustainability is not just a buzzword – it is a way of life that encompasses the
preservation of our planet, society, and economy. It involves practices that
allow us to meet our present needs without compromising the ability of
generations to meet their own. Sustainability requires a delicate balance
between environmental, social, and economic aspects to ensure the long-term
wellbeing of our planet and its inhabitants. By embracing sustainability, we can
create a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come.

###### What would a 󠀁_green future_󠁿 look like?

A successfully green future is one that relies on renewable energy sources as
its primary energy source, energy-efficient buildings, sustainable agriculture
practices and equitable access to clean air and water. It is a future where
people live in harmony with nature, and the natural world is respected and
protected for future generations – a healthy life for all, where the environment
and society thrive together in perfect balance.

###### How do you look after your wellbeing outside of work?

Living in York provides me with the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of
the Yorkshire Dales and Howardian Hills right on my doorstep. There’s nothing
like the peace and quiet of the countryside to recharge and rejuvenate my mind
and body. However, my greatest source of happiness comes from spending time with
the people I love most – my family and friends. Whether it’s visiting them in
various parts of the country, or simply enjoying their company at home, they are
the centre of my world. As a true believer in the importance of work-life
balance, I make sure to prioritise these relationships and experiences above all
else. It’s these moments of connection and joy that have a positive impact on
the soul.

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

George Michael – a true gem of a human being, whose untimely passing was a great
loss to the world. It was only after his passing that we learned of his
incredible generosity and kindness, which he had kept hidden from the public
eye. In a world where every good deed is often shared on social media for the
sake of recognition, it is truly admirable that he gave so selflessly without
seeking any form of public validation or praise. His legacy is a testament to
the power of kindness and compassion, and a reminder that the most meaningful
acts of generosity are often the ones that go unseen.

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

Trains are a mode of transportation that I absolutely love. There is something
really enjoyable about traversing the country by rail, and I can only imagine
the sheer luxury and romance of travelling on the famed Orient Express! Whilst I
may need to start saving my pennies and join the four-year waiting list, it
would be a dream come true to experience such an iconic journey. The beauty of
our countryside is truly brought to life when travelling on some of the
cross-country lines. Not only do trains alleviate the congestion on our roads,
but they also provide a delightful way to explore the world around us. Whilst
delays and cancellations can be frustrating, when everything is running smoothly
there’s nothing quite like the joy of a carefree train journey.

[See all interviews](https://www.systra.com/ireland/en/careers/our-professions/)