Staff Spotlight: Victoria Barthelmess

SUSTAINABILITY ECONOMIST

Specialist skills

• Quantitative & qualitative analysis

• Systems thinking

What was your career journey into this role?

After finishing my degree in Economics, I joined a multinational energy company. Over seven years, I worked in various strategic roles, honing skills in developing strategies for complex supply chains and commercial models.

I focused on enhancing sustainability within value chains, worked on advancing floating offshore wind technologies, and led macroeconomic analyses that guided the company’s investments and vision of the long-term energy system.

Although I gained immense knowledge, I grew increasingly concerned about the economic system’s impact on climate change. This realisation led me to pursue a master’s in ecological economics, deepening my understanding of the interplay between economics and environmental sustainability.

Why did you come to work at SAC Consulting?

As my master’s programme concluded, I sought a role where I could align my expertise with nature-focused work. SAC Consulting’s Food and Footprint team stood out to me. Their dedication to researching and advising on sustainable land use matched my desire to influence policy and practice through research.

The opportunity to work on impactful projects with a focus on Scotland was really appealing. The combination of applied analysis and research in a dynamic and meaningful field made SAC Consulting a nice fit.

If you could do anyone else’s job, who would it be and why?

I’d be intrigued to take on the role of our team’s ecologists. Their work is at the cutting edge of Scotland’s environmental policies, particularly around biodiversity. They delve into measuring and supporting biodiversity, an area crucial for Scotland’s ecological health. Their expertise in this field not only informs policy but also drives practical solutions to enhance Scotland’s natural environment.

What work are you most proud of and why?

One project I’m particularly proud of is our collaboration with Highlands Rewilding. We’re assisting in setting up joint ventures with local businesses to allow local communities to benefit from rewilding efforts. All these businesses are looking to support connectivity with nature. It’s exciting to see this initiative grow, and I’m hopeful that our support will lead to tangible, positive outcomes for both the community and the environment.

If you had one wish, to be used to better the industry, what would you wish for?

If I had one wish, it would be to enhance inclusivity in decision-making processes. I believe integrating diverse voices—those who are directly impacted by environmental decisions can lead to more equitable and effective outcomes. Making these voices central to the conversation would enrich the decision-making process and ensure that solutions are more comprehensive and just.