This webinar series, "A day in the life", shares stories and perspectives from environmental professionals working across specialisms and sectors. The series will highlight the breadth of environmental careers and the diversity of routes into the sector.

In this webinar, Akshatha Veerendra, Head of Sustainability at MZA, will provide insights into the following areas: 

• What a typical day looks like in her role

• The range of projects, clients, and building types she works on

• Different sectors and the importance of green building certifications like BREEAM, WELL and Sustainability for Planning

• Her university and post-university life, including challenges she faced and how she overcame them

• How STEM careers have transformed over the years

• Practical advice and tips for anyone considering a career in STEM

If you are interested in presenting a webinar as part of our "A day in the life" series and sharing your career journey and passion for the sector with the next generation of environmental scientists, please get in contact with Ethny Childs (ethny@the-ies.org).

Our speaker

Akshatha Veerendra Msc, MIEnvSc, BREEAM AP, WELL AP, Fitwel & STEM Ambassador 

Akshatha (Aks) is the Head of Sustainability at MZA drawing on two decades of experience in energy and environmental management. As a full member of the Institution of Environmental Science (IES) and a multi-accredited professional (BREEAM, WELL, Fitwell), she demonstrates a deep commitment to sustainable practices. Aks has recently been appointed as a Climate Action Community Steering Group member working collaboratively with IES staff to deliver the annual Community workplan.

Her academic credentials, including a Master’s in Forest Ecology and Management from the University of Edinburgh and specialized training in Sustainable Finance from Cambridge University, underpin her strategic vision. Aks has delivered impactful sustainability strategies for landmark projects, including HS2, London City Airport and significant government contracts such as Ministry of Justice (MOJ) with her sustainability projects earning multiple award nominations. 

Recognized for her expertise, she has been a guest speaker on industry podcasts and at educational institutions such as the prestigious Cambridge University of Sustainability leadership and Harrow Boys School in London. Her insights on health and wellbeing were featured in Raconteur Magazine. 

Committed to wider societal impact, Aks is a dedicated STEM ambassador, actively supporting a crucial research study programme by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Department of Economics and WISE which addresses a critical issue where some students may have less access to informal advice and support for their university applications, which can exacerbate socioeconomic disparities in access to higher education. 

Banner image copyright: Oksana Karuna via Adobe Stock