Role: Senior Consultant (Development Planning)

Career Area: Transport Strategy and Planning

Location: London

My role at SYSTRA

As a Senior Consultant within the Development Planning team, my primary responsibility is to provide advice and technical support on transport planning and development-related projects.

I lead and manage projects to assess and shape how transport infrastructure integrates with the new development and urban growth.

This includes preparing documents for planning applications, conducting junction modelling, and collaboration with design teams to create more integrated and sustainable transportation connections within these developments.

My career journey

I have always had an interest in the built environment and the world around me which is the reason I pursued Geography at University. This led me to discover the world of consultancy within a built environment field and enabled me to specialise in transport planning – tying together my interests with my data-driven skillset.

I have also always been an inquisitive person and would describe myself as a problem solver. I enjoy understanding the bigger picture, but I am also able to focus in on the minor details. I love working in a collaborative environment which transport planning has allowed me to do. I work with internal colleagues across the business (including various offices) but also, I engage with wider design teams, local authorities and clients to create the best outcome for all.  

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

I realised this was the career path for me a couple of years ago when I felt I had found my feet in the industry. With the confidence I had gained in my earlier years I was able to be the lead in new and exciting projects coming through. Over the years, the feedback from colleagues and clients has also allowed me to grow as a consultant and strengthen that realisation that this is the path for me.

As a woman working in a STEM industry, do you have any advice for others considering this pathway? 

Find an environment that suits you, whether that’s the type of projects you want to work on, or the type of company structure and practice. Also find people who you can thrive with and bounce ideas off of. Through working in this industry, I have met some amazing people and created friendships with people, who I no longer get to work with, but they remain in my life.

How does SYSTRA set a good example in supporting women in the workplace?

I have been fortunate in my experiences as a woman in the workplace for the majority of my career, including at SYSTRA. Having a woman as a line manager has been really valuable as I am able to visualise myself in a more senior position. It gives me an understanding of how, as a woman, I can succeed throughout my career journey and achieve my career aspirations.

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

I provide an important perspective through my experience of using various modes of transport as a woman. We must consider each and every experience on transport to visualise what works best for the user – lived experiences can truly shape the designs for new developments in the future.

Have there been any challenges for you working as a woman in STEM? How have you handled these?

I think communication is vital. Having opportunities to speak to a manager or mentor is important. This is something SYSTRA put in place to create an environment to discuss all aspects of work. But I would also encourage people to join the wider industry communities. I am a member of the Women in Transport network, and hearing other people’s stories, and the work (from company to government levels) that is being done to create a more equitable future, is really inspiring.

Where is the place that has inspired you the most?

Anywhere which is a part of the natural environment is where I refresh and find sources of inspiration. Mother Nature never fails to impress me, and I’ve been fortunate to travel to some of the most beautiful places in the world. This always resonates with me when I’m working on new developments, as I do think protecting our world is crucial to a sustainable future.

What would a truly green future look like?

I hope a green future consists of more integrated travel via sustainable sources. This can be achieved through the early-stage design. Taking action now will enable individuals to make more conscious decisions on how they get from A to B, and ultimately create choice of travel in the future.

How do you look after your wellbeing outside of work?

Exercise is crucial to me. I’m a keen runner and like to set myself challenges to work towards, which helps me structure my week to ensure consistency with my training plans. But more importantly, my dog is key to my wellbeing. No matter how busy I am, we always get out on our morning walk, which sets me up for a day.

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

If I could spend my lunch with someone who inspires me then I would be having a lovely lunch with my friends. I am surrounded by wonderful people across various industries who are smashing it and inspire me to succeed.

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

I’m very lucky to live in London where I have access to all types of transport, which allows me to travel as sustainably as I can. I also enjoy cycling as it’s often the quickest mode of travel and means I get to spend my time seeing more of the city – I should definitely do it more often.

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