Maria Martinez: everyone is a future leader

Why did you join ERM? 

There were lots of reasons. One key factor was career development – there are lots of opportunities for personal growth here. The business sees everyone as a future leader, no matter who you are, so you’re actively encouraged to go out and expand your horizons. The outstanding rewards and benefits package was part of my thinking too. Here, effort pays off.  

But, above all, the biggest factor for me was the ERM’s vision and beliefs. It’s something we all share here. I take great pride in contributing to a company dedicated to sustainability, doing work with real impact on the future for all.  

What makes ERM stand out from other organisations? 

In a word: expertise. The people I work with every day are incredible. Being a part of ERM makes you a member of a worldwide community of professionals in a variety of different specialisms – the best minds, all united by a common purpose, all making a significant contribution. Bringing all these people together gives us the power to solve some of the world’s most complex problems, accomplishing things that may seem impossible to others. There’s a reason that the company has such a strong reputation as a global leader! 

Any career highlights so far? 

It’s barely been a year since I joined ERM, but I’m proud to say I had the honour of winning an award for my efforts. It’s yet another thing I appreciate about working here: the company goes out of its way to acknowledge the contributions its people make. Having that recognition not only fills me with joy, but really fires me up too. More than anything, I’m grateful to be part of a company that values me.  

What’s the working environment like? 

The atmosphere in the office is welcoming and supportive. Of course, it’s a professional setting, full of people with deep technical expertise, but it’s also familiar and comfortable. Every business out there says that teamwork matters to them, but at ERM it’s part of who we are. The company puts a lot of emphasis on collaboration and there’s a natural camaraderie because we’re all working with the same ultimate aims. Stepping into the office, I get a strong sense of belonging – it feels like home to me. 

And what keeps you busy when you’re not at work? 

At home, I have 5 kittens and a boyfriend, all competing for my attention. When I’m not with them, I enjoy exercise and reading, while I just love getting out and exploring the world on road trips. It helps that ERM has a culture that fosters a healthy work-life balance – they recognise the importance of you as an individual, including all your personality and passions.