We support a world which is diverse, equal and inclusive. That’s why Thomson environmental consultants ‘breaks the bias’ and offers various benefits for all employees, regardless of gender.
Founded in 2004 by its female CEO, Nancy Thomson, 51% of employees at Thomson are female, with everybody treated equally. Today on International Women’s Day (March 8th), we shine the spotlight on some of our female environmental specialists who are progressing within our company and making a difference to the natural world.
Felicity Andruszko, Ecology Associate Director
How did you get into your role?
I joined Thomson as a Graduate Ecologist in 2014 after completing an undergraduate degree at University of Exeter in Biological Sciences followed by a part time Masters in Environmental Management at Birkbeck College, University of London. While studying, I also volunteered at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust carrying out water vole, crayfish and invasive plant surveys. I have always been passionate about nature and wildlife but it was during my masters and my time at the wildlife trust that I was able to see this shaping my career.
Tell us about your career with Thomson
Early in my career at Thomson I was mostly carrying out a range of protected species and habitat surveys and associated reporting and as I progressed I began managing a range of projects from residential developments to large infrastructure projects helping our clients achieve the best outcomes for biodiversity in their developments.
What is your top achievement?
In 2021 I became Associate Director with one of my main focus being the “people” element of our ecology team. This role has given me the opportunity to continue to use my technical skills to help our clients but also to help develop the fantastic team of ecologists we have working for us across the country.
Loreto Gestoso, Senior Marine Biologist
How did you get into your role?
Originally from northwest Spain, I was looking to work abroad and through a newsletter, I found a job advertised as a Marine Biologist at Thomson which sounded like my perfect role.
Tell us about your career so far with Thomson
Since I arrived in 2017 I have always felt welcome. I learn new things every day and I have had the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects and even to see marine fauna I haven’t before!
What is your top achievement?
My top achievement was completing my PhD which focused on benthic macrofaunal communities in a seagrass habitat in Northwest Spain and my drive for learning new things in science and research.
Lauren Hornsby-Riley, Senior Ecological Consultant & Leeds Regional Office Manager
How did you get into your role?
After studying Ecology at The University of Hull I knew I wanted to pursue a career in consultancy. I’m passionate about environmental compliance, and work to continuously improve my technical knowledge and skills in the sector.
Tell us about your career with Thomson
Since joining Thomson in 2017 I’ve been involved in numerous exciting projects including visiting an undisturbed lake home to a group of otters, a bat survey of the longest rail tunnel in Wales, and climbing some incredible trees whilst undertaking bat potential roost assessments – a word of warning: approach potential bat roost features in trees with caution – sometimes they contain grey squirrels that like to aim straight for your face!
What is your top achievement?
Personally, my top achievement is gaining my position as Team Lead of our Leeds ecology team where I’m responsible for the continual mentoring and up-skilling of our junior ecologists, as well as bringing on recent graduates just starting their careers.
Come and join us
We offer lots of exciting opportunities for anyone seeking a career in environmental consulting. To join Team Thomson, why not check out our careers page for our latest vacancies.
