After graduating with a degree in Fashion Buying and Marketing, Daria was determined to turn her passion for sustainability into a career. With help from the Skills Bootcamp and IEMA membership, she now works full-time in responsible sourcing for one of the UK’s biggest construction companies
Name: Daria
Age: 22
Previous role: University Graduate
New role: Responsible Sourcing Advisor
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What were you doing before this course?
I graduated from university with a First Honours degree in Fashion Buying with Marketing in September 2024. I was looking for a job in sustainability, having done a placement at my university in the Sustainability Team as a Sustainable Supply Chain Coordinator. I enjoyed that role immensely, focusing on sustainable procurement.
How did you find doing the course or training? Did it meet your expectations?
I took the course very seriously as I found that potential employers were looking for industry-specific qualifications like IEMA membership. I already had some knowledge of sustainability before doing the course, but I learned new things such as communication and the legal aspects of sustainability jobs. I liked the idea of doing one course that ultimately provided three certificates, two memberships with professional bodies, and career support. This support was invaluable as I wasn’t confident with job applications. The career support sessions gave me a confidence boost as someone could see me from an employer’s perspective – that feedback and experience were very valuable.
Did the Skills Bootcamp improve your confidence when applying for green jobs?
Absolutely, it improved my confidence.
Did the knowledge gained during Skills Bootcamp help during the interview process?
Working in groups during sessions and analysing different business case studies gave me an opportunity to improve my critical thinking and analytical skills. I felt confident during the interviews as I had background knowledge from the course discussions and from listening to other students’ ideas and perspectives.
What are you doing now and how has the course supported that?
I now have a full-time job doing what I love and am good at. I work as a Responsible Sourcing Advisor for the largest construction and infrastructure company in the UK. I never thought I would work in construction, but I like the idea that the new projects I’ll be involved in will produce lower carbon emissions. I found a purpose in what I do. During the interview process, I had to prove that I had relevant experience for the role and differentiate myself from other candidates, as competition is high nowadays. With the knowledge from the course and my previous work experience, I was able to tick all the boxes for my current employer.
Would you recommend other people doing the course?
I would recommend the course to anyone looking to progress in their career and move into sustainability.
What would your advice be to others seeking a green job?
Although it depends on the role, in business functions like sustainable procurement, it's crucial to have a core understanding of sustainability within a business context. Additionally, you need to be adept at efficiently solving various business needs to minimise carbon emissions while ensuring the business remains profitable.
I had a great time while doing the course. The atmosphere was supportive and respectful, as all of us came from different backgrounds and perspectives. We were all united by the same goal – to follow our interests and passions in sustainability.
