Articles

Walk us through a typical day in your shoes

"No two days are ever the same! However, on a typical Monday, my day starts with a check-in meeting with the Head of FM & Sustainability, followed by our weekly team focus meeting to align priorities and ensure everything is on track.

 

From there, I organise my workload using MS Planner—I love ticking things off and making progress. I also follow the "eat the frog" approach, tackling the most important tasks first thing in the morning when my energy is at its peak. This phrase was actually shared by our Head of Sustainability during her Monday motivation messages! And, of course, I can’t start my day without my chimarrão or a good cup of coffee. ????

A big part of my role involves managing energy data and preparing data quality reports for client meetings, so scheduling focused work time is key. I also collaborate closely with Facilities and Property Managers to drive sustainability initiatives, which often means a mix of face-to-face and Teams meetings. Every day brings something new!"

What kind of clients do you work with?

"I primarily work with investors, delivering a range of sustainability initiatives throughout the year."

What services does SHW offer in sustainability?

"I specifically work within the Property Management division, running data collection projects for client’s green credentials, initiatives and occupier engagement initiatives. However we offer a variety of sustainability services across such as:"

Bespoke ESG/Sustainability roadmaps

Data collection and reporting

Occupier engagement - ESG initiatives

Energy improvements

EPC and DEC assessments

ESOS and Heating Regulation (HNMBR)

Green clauses

Project management

SJA rating and BREEAM assessment advice

Strategic portfolio advice

Sustainability appraisal (Travel plan and energy report)

Capital allowances

Dilapidations advice

 

Can you give us an example of what you have done for a client?

 

"We offer a range of sustainability consultancy services, particularly for one key client I work closely with. One of my most impactful contributions was leading the data automation project last year. Rather than manually collecting utility data from the occupiers, we collaborated with another consultant to automate data collection from tenants. This shift has significantly improved efficiency, allowing us to dedicate more time to implementing meaningful sustainability initiatives rather than chasing data."

What is your biggest achievement within sustainability?

"One of my greatest achievements has been managing and streamlining data collection last year, which enabled us to produce SHW’s first carbon emissions report and first Planet Mark certification. During this year I will be doing the same process."

What is SHW doing themselves/company wise in terms of sustainability/ESG?

"You can’t manage what you can’t measure. At SHW, we are committed to annually tracking our carbon emissions, using 2023/2024 as our baseline year. We are also proud members of the UN Global Compact, a strategic initiative that supports companies dedicated to responsible business practices in human rights, labour, the environment, and anti-corruption.

As part of our sustainability commitment, SHW is working towards Net Zero by 2050, with every employee playing a vital role in this journey.

We are ISO 14001 certified, which drives key initiatives such as reducing energy consumption and minimizing printing. To further our impact, SHW has a Green Committee to raise awareness, engage employees in sustainability efforts, such as energy and waste audits, and promote best practices company-wide.

However, true sustainability goes beyond individual actions. It requires full integration across all departments, which is why ongoing awareness and engagement are essential to making a lasting impact."

What sustainable feature or eco-friendly practice have you incorporated that has benefited you most?

"Carrying my reusable water bottle and my pink, lovely reusable cup from my home country, Brazil! It’s a small change, but it makes a big difference by reducing single-use plastic. Plus, I can take them anywhere!"

Name 1 person, 1 event and 1 item that inspires you in ESG/Sustainability:

Person: "Many people inspire me in sustainability, but if I had to choose one, it would be Elena Doms - her passion for sustainability and climate action is truly inspiring."

 

Event: "COP (Conference of the Parties) - a key meeting where global leaders come together to promote meaningful climate action. This year, it will be held in Belém, Pará, Brazil, right in the heart of the Amazon rainforest."

 

Item: "Block Solutions innovative and environmentally friendly building material made from recycled plastic, promoting sustainable construction."

 

And finally, what would you love to see implemented in the next 5 years?

"As sustainability is still a relatively new department at SHW, I would love to see it become fully integrated across the entire company. My goal is for sustainability to be embedded in our corporate culture, with most employees actively participating in green initiatives and recognising the importance of our work in tackling climate change."