Jakub Swiderski

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

When I first learned about projects during my degree – this really sparked my interest in the industry.

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

Do not be afraid to ask questions, and do not expect yourself to always be able to come up with the answers alone.

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

From my experience, SYSTRA’s culture stands out from any place that I’ve worked in before. Colleagues are very helpful at every step of the way. Our work life balance is respected and cared for, and our wellbeing is always the priority for our line managers. It’s all about how you feel on those Sunday nights or Wednesday afternoons, and those usually feel pretty good to me!

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

People tell me that I come up with really good ideas. I tend to reject the obvious solution and go with something less obvious – you could call it thinking outside the box. I also come from a different country, which allows me to view things from a different perspective.

Where is the place that has inspired you the most?

The City of London (conveniently where SYSTRA have an office). Every time I visit the London office, I am amazed by the location’s architecture, history and significance to the world.

What does true sustainability really mean to you?

For me, true sustainability could be achieved if we all lived and died without having a negative impact on the planet’s future. We should aim for the next generation to be pleased with us, not to resent us!

What would a green future look like?

One where we can co-exist with nature in a symbiotic relationship, not in a host-virus relationship.

How do you look after your wellbeing outside of work?

I always make sure that I have been outside at least once a day. I try to reflect on the positive things in my life (no matter how big or small). I attend the gym 3-4 times a week and try to spend at least 15 minutes a day in silence with no stimuli around me.

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

If it’s a historical person, then I would go with Nelson Mandela. If it’s someone who is still alive, then I would go with Jakub Blaszczykowski. Both have overcome impossible situations to still achieve amazing things in their lifetimes.

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

It would no doubt have to be a train. Train lines are the veins of a country, and trains are the blood cells that carry the important stuff to where it needs to be. It was on a train that I left my hometown many years ago, and it is still a train that I get on every day to get to work.