Join our team as a junior consultant

Elaine Anning, Director at Global City Futures speaks with Abi Wilkin (right), a Junior Consultant who joined as a graduate six months ago.

Abi talks about her journey into the sector, her experience so far and what she’s learning. From environmental science to business cases and stakeholder engagement, Abi shares insights into working at the intersection of sustainability, finance, and public impact.

What did you study and how did it lead you to a role in financial consultancy?

I studied Environmental Science at the Open University. It was a really broad, interdisciplinary course, covering sustainability, economics, ecology, geography, and some social science. I learned how to write reports, analyse data, and assess options in a structured way.

One of the most relevant modules involved writing a renewable energy assessment. We evaluated technologies like wind, biomass, and solar for a small-scale site, considering cost, carbon savings, and feasibility. That kind of skills base, where you are balancing technical evidence with clear recommendations, is very transferable to the work I do now.

How did you discover Global City Futures?

I was looking for roles in sustainability and decarbonisation. At first, I applied for grad schemes and public sector roles, such as climate emergency officers. But then I started doing direct web searches for “decarbonisation companies in Exeter,” which is how I found Global City Futures.

What stood out was the combination of environmental and social value. I saw case studies involving NHS key worker housing and heat networks; things that had real-world impact. So I sent in a speculative application.

What have you learned since joining?

A lot! On the technical side, I’ve improved in Excel, PowerPoint, and Publisher, and picked up more advanced research and report-writing skills. I’ve also developed a better understanding of things like subsidy control, local government reorganisation, and how to write collaboratively, which is very different from uni where you submit your own work rather than co-authoring reports with multiple people.

I’ve also had the chance to work on client-facing workshops, initially doing note-taking, and now starting to contribute more actively. Learning how to engage clients, guide conversations, and manage expectations is a valuable skill in consultancy.

What areas do you want to grow in?

I’d love to develop further in economic analysis and benefits appraisal, and gain more experience in project management – to be able to say, “I helped lead this from start to finish.” I’ve started leaning into that already, but would like to take it further.

I’ve gained Better Business Case Practitioner and Carbon Literacy certification with Global City Futures.

I’m also considering more structured learning, maybe a project management qualification, or an advanced Excel/data course, because there’s always more to learn.

Any advice for others interested in this field?

Don’t be put off if you don’t have a traditional finance background. My degree was in environmental science, and others on the team come from varied disciplines like sustainability and business. What matters is your ability to think critically, work with data, and communicate clearly.

Also – avoid jargon. Clear, simple language goes a long way, especially when you’re working with clients who may not be familiar with concepts like business cases or net zero pipelines. Consultancy isn’t about buzzwords – it’s about clarity and impact.

Join Our Team

Inspired by Abi’s journey? We’re currently looking for a Junior Consultant to join our growing team at Global City Futures.

This is an opportunity to:

Work on high-impact projects with public and third sector clients
Contribute to sustainable, data-led purposeful development
Develop your skills in financial modelling, business case development, and stakeholder engagement

Whether your background is in sustainability, economics, public policy, or a related field, we want to hear from you.