I think most people leave a job interview relieved that it’s over, or perhaps nervous about the outcome. When I left the interview for my role at ERM, I remember feeling inspired. I knew immediately that this was where I wanted to be, where I wanted to grow and where I wanted to contribute.

That’s because this wasn’t just a role involved in sustainable development – it was an opportunity to join a company where that’s ingrained in the culture and central to its purpose. Here, sustainability is the business. It’s all we do. Now, working with companies from around the world and across a diverse range of industries, I get to learn about sustainability challenges from multiple perspectives, all while working with people who have immense knowledge. It’s so inspiring – I absolutely love my team and the projects we work on.

I’ve always been a strong believer in the power of storytelling. Long before I joined ERM, I recognized how vital a tool this could be for engaging with the challenges of sustainability – it became my bridge for these topics. It’s a wonderful approach for making connections and sharing ideas, a way to spark people’s curiosity and inspire change. Today, it’s an important tool in my work, helping us translate challenges or opportunities into narratives that resonate. By crafting a compelling story, we can turn our everyday actions into lasting impact.

Early on in my time here, I was given both the creative freedom and the responsibility to put my passion for storytelling into action. I took on the task of redeveloping our report templates to find new ways of engaging with our clients – helping them understand the measures for meaningful action. The right story allows anyone to engage with sustainability, which then drives positive change.

I’ve also taken an active role in a range of projects, which has been incredibly rewarding, not only because it has driven my personal growth, but also because my contribution earned me the Global Recognition Award in Client Focus Delivery. Considering the impact that I see my colleagues making every day, it’s an honor to have my work recognized. It’s a testament to the culture here – every achievement is built on a foundation of collaboration and community.

Quotation mark I feel lucky to be part of a supportive team so eager to drive each other to make the world a better place. I think it’s a story well worth telling! Quotation mark

Mercedes Martinez

Consulting Senior Associate