What made you choose Arbtech?
I graduated from Oxford Brookes University in 2021 with a BSc in Animal Biology and Conservation. Since my degree, I was heavily involved with my family farm in North Shropshire and also worked as a cook/barista part-time across two independent coffee shop businesses. I wanted to move to London and be closer to friends and live life in the city, especially while I’m still young! I knew I wanted to pursue a career in ecology, as this is something I’ve developed a real passion for from a young age.
I’d been following Arbtech via LinkedIn and other social media platforms for some time. One aspect that stuck out was their positive culture. There is a sense of a happy workplace and a great team spirit; employees are the number one priority in the company and are unequivocally put before everything else.
Initially, I applied for the intern ecologist position in London and made it to the interview stage but was offered a permanent role within the company as a graduate ecologist. I couldn’t believe it and accepted the job offer straight away without hesitation!
I am looking forward to getting stuck in and couldn’t think of a better company to start my career in.
What do you love most about the company?
I haven’t been with the company long, but what I can speak of is how incredibly friendly and welcoming the team have been so far.
There is a strong sense of a happy workplace – everyone seems to be well looked after, respected and so supportive of one another.
The benefits/perks at Arbtech also sound fantastic. I’m just so excited to get started and be part of a team of highly skilled and knowledgeable people to learn and develop from.
What do you do when you are not in Arbtech?
Outside of work, I like to be active; I enjoy walks and being at the gym. I love exploring London’s parks – Richmond and Battersea parks are my favourites – and I love going on long country walks too, especially with our dog Nemo, who’s a German shepherd and the biggest friendly giant!
I also love socialising with friends, whether it involves catching up at the pub, going out for drinks, attending a music festival, or booking a camping trip somewhere! We have the Lost Village Festival booked for the summer, which I am so excited about!
I run a Depop account in my spare time, actively selling clothes and generating a large following. Knowing I am recycling and helping make fashion more sustainable gives me great satisfaction.
When I am back at home on the farm in Shropshire, you’ll probably find me tending to our herd of Aberdeen Angus cattle or driving some sort of machinery. It’s great being able to go back to that when I want a break from the city.
What is the biggest tip to achieve the most in life?
Step outside your comfort zone. Each step you take to expand your comfort zone leads to personal growth, learning and success.
I’ve surprised myself and gained the confidence to tackle things that I never thought would be possible.
What is the best social you’ve been on at Arbtech?
I have yet to attend a social due to just starting at Arbtech. However, I have heard so much about previous socials, and they sounded like so much fun! For example, skiing in Austria and Latitude Festival.
I can’t wait to get involved and meet my Arbtech colleagues at future social events.
Where do you want to travel to next?
There are so many places!
I’ve not been to many countries, but I would love to visit Australia. My brother has recently gone travelling there, and he’s currently having the best time exploring the eastern coast.
I’ve always wanted to visit Iceland after watching a documentary and being stunned by its beautiful landscape. It would be incredible to see the Northern Lights.
Thailand would also be on the list. I love Thai cuisine! Visiting its idyllic beaches and perfect tropical islands would be something special too.
I also love to do little city breaks here in this country and in the rest of the UK. Bath and Oxford City have a little place in my heart, and I would love to visit Edinburgh and Glasgow too!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
I’ve recently moved to London from my family farm in Shropshire. In five years’ time, I see myself loving the city life with friends and exploring what it has to offer.
Professionally, I see myself more established within my role and a more confident and valuable member of the team at Arbtech. By then, I would like to have gained knowledge, skills and ecological experience.
What is a goal you have for the future, in or out of work?
Outside of work, a goal for far into the future would be to own a house, have a family and be settled somewhere – maybe a little out of London with enough space for a few chickens and a veg patch!
I would like to have done a bit of travelling and to have visited many more parts of this world while I’m in my 20s.
I would also like to have completed a half marathon and get more into running and fitness.
Giorgina joined Arbtech in April 2023.
