Jac Medve

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Tell us a bit about your current role and responsibilities

Consulting can be very broad. ERM is really cool because everybody has an environmental and/or sustainability background. It is a great opportunity to continue learning outside the classroom while making a difference. I have helped research, draft reports, co-develop offerings, innovate operations, and provide third-party assurance.

Currently, third-party assurance is my primary responsibility. Our team provides independent assurance in line with proven methodologies and strategic frameworks, such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), to assess our clients’ materiality and drive robust reporting.

The day-to-day work as a consultant is dynamic and stimulating. Each day brings new adventures. One day I can be in the office conducting a data review, meeting with clients virtually, and doing on-the-job training. On another day, I could be at a client's site.

Did you get into this role right after graduation?

During my time at The University of Edinburgh, I worked part-time for a private company managing their sustainability endeavours. As I left Edinburgh (August 2022) I was under the impression that I would be joining full-time. However, that company was unable to bring on a full-time sustainability manager at that time.  After taking August and September to travel Europe and spend time with family and friends, I took October-December to apply for jobs. I spent about 8 hours a day researching, applying, and interviewing. I received an offer from ERM in December and started working at the end of January.

I joined ERM in an early career program and within the first few months moved teams to ERM CVS. My primary role is to support the data review for third-party assurance on non-financial data (GHG scope 1-3, water, waste, etc.). I have worked in a variety of sectors including consumer goods, manufacturing, mining, and energy.

What is the most satisfying part of your role?

It is really gratifying to work with clients to help them develop robust sustainability reporting and disclosure systems. This role has allowed me to develop a better understanding of data management and disclosure at a micro level.

What part of your role do you find the most challenging?

It can be difficult to find your niche. Following your passion and being inquisitive makes it easier to get through the learning curve that comes with all jobs.

Do you have any advice for students looking for employment in your field?

The University of Edinburgh has world-class faculty, staff, and students. Take the time to get to know as many people as possible. The relationships you build will become a life-long network personally and professionally.

Be inquisitive. Ego can get in the way of self-development, but I promise the community at Edinburgh are eager to share their knowledge. Everybody has something to teach, including you! The faculty are not simply teaching you, they are co-learning. The open co-learning environment at the University of Edinburgh was one of my favourite elements.

The best way to learn what you want to do after leaving the University is through trial and error (learn what you don't want to do). Take advantage of exploring the abundant opportunities.

Also, don't be afraid to message alumni through LinkedIn. I found that alumni were happy to talk about their experiences at Edinburgh and their careers. It was really helpful for me to hear their experiences to visualise the paths that I could take.

Tell us a bit about your background and why you chose Edinburgh

I came to Edinburgh after completing a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology and Business. As I finished my undergraduate studies, I asked the question we all do. What do I want to do with my life? I realised that I wanted to make a difference in an emerging field, challenging myself to help answer questions not yet solved. I wanted to pursue a career working towards addressing the climate crisis. The University of Edinburgh gave me the opportunity to live abroad, explore new cultures, and attend one of the world’s leading universities that has a distinctive expertise in sustainability.

My choice to attend Edinburgh over other institutions was fourfold. Financially, Edinburgh was more cost-effective than US equivalents. Personally, I wanted to immerse myself in a new culture, adding to the depth of learning and growth. Professionally, Edinburgh is a world-class institution with world-class people. Lastly, I had a gut feeling. I didn't know what the gut feeling was prior to attending Edinburgh, but I can now confidently say that it was the magical atmosphere that the country, city, and people have created.

What was the highlight of your studies?

Travelling to Orkney with my cohort and again for my dissertation brought memories I will never forget. I was fortunate enough to make many life-long friends during my time. I cherish the memories made in class, during trips, and nights out.

Do you have any advice for current students?

Take the leap. Jump out of your comfort zone. You may just fall in love with the city like I did.

Your dissertation is what you make of it. It can simply be a requirement for your degree, or you can pursue a passion, using the knowledge gathered as an asset for interviews.

Skimming is your best friend. Read the abstract, introduction, and conclusion of everything, but dive deeper when your interest is piqued. This allows you to develop a breadth of knowledge to succeed in coursework and in your areas of interest.

Enjoy every second of your time. It goes by too fast!