Hannah Thompson MSc

The course

Why did you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School (UEBS)?

I chose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School because of its worldwide reputation, industry connections, diverse student body, and location. I also visited Edinburgh about two years before applying for a master’s programme and fell in love with the city’s charm and history.

What was it about the degree programme that particularly attracted you?

The MSc in Global Strategy and Sustainability was unique because it focused on the intersection of business and sustainability, which not many other programmes offered. I previously worked in sustainability, but I realised that I needed to deepen my expertise to successfully transition into the private sector.

What attracted me most to this programme was the hands-on experience it offered, including the sustainable business consultancy project, career treks, and the option of a client-sponsored dissertation.

Your career

Can you tell us about your career before and after graduating?

Before coming to Edinburgh, I was working at a sustainability non-profit organisation in Hawaii, coordinating the business community to advance Hawaii’s locally determined sustainability goals.

While I was finishing my dissertation, I applied for my current role as a climate change and sustainability consultant. I now work with a wide range of clients, including governments and companies, to plan for and integrate sustainability solutions that contribute to equitable decarbonisation and resilient communities.

How did your degree prepare you for your career?

My degree in Global Strategy and Sustainability provided both the knowledge and perspective that have been essential in my career. The programme gave me a strong foundation in understanding how businesses operate, and more importantly, where and how sustainability can be embedded into core business strategies.

The diverse perspectives of my peers and professors challenged me to think critically and approach sustainability through economic, social, and environmental lenses. This broadened perspective has been invaluable in my current role as a climate change and sustainability manager, where I work with a wide range of stakeholders to design and implement strategies that align with economic goals, climate action, and long-term resilience.

Beyond the degree itself, I felt deeply supported by the UEBS Student Development Team. Their career coaching services were especially impactful, helping me build confidence as a young professional and equipping me with practical tools and advice that I continue to use today.

As a sustainability consultant, I work with a range of clients to plan for and integrate sustainable solutions.

Masters of Change

What notable changes has your degree enabled you to make in your professional or personal life?

This degree equipped me with the skills and knowledge I needed to successfully transition into the private sector. It provided a strong foundation in sustainability frameworks and theory, which I have been able to apply in my work.

Being part of an international and diverse cohort exposed me to a wide range of perspectives and approaches to sustainability. This experience not only broadened my thinking but also strengthened my cross-cultural awareness and ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.

What are the changes you have been able to make in your chosen field, of which you are most proud?

Over the past two years, I’ve supported state and local governments as well as companies across the US in advancing sustainability solutions. For example, I’ve worked with local governments to develop climate action plans that outline strategies to reduce community-wide GHG emissions and achieve their reduction targets. In leading these efforts, I place a strong emphasis on equity, ensuring that plans are community-driven and deliver inclusive benefits.

How did your studies at the Business School help you to make those changes?

This programme provided me with the knowledge, theory and frameworks to make complicated, multifaceted decisions in my current role.

What key things that you learnt at the Business School do you still rely on today?

Collaborating within such a diverse class helped me to develop skills I continue to rely on today, including intercultural communication, adaptive teamwork, and strategic thinking in complex global contexts.

Course highlights and advice

What are your best memories on the programme?

I truly loved every minute of my time in Edinburgh, but some of my favourite memories include the Christmas dinner, making dumplings as a cohort for Lunar New Year, and hiking Arthur’s Seat after submitting my dissertation!

What truly made the programme unforgettable were the people. Each conversation, shared meal, late night out, and spontaneous adventure reminded me how lucky I was to be surrounded by such passionate, thoughtful, and kind individuals. They truly made Edinburgh feel like home.

What one piece of advice would you give to current students and recent graduates?

Be open-minded and curious, try to say yes to every opportunity that comes your way. Most importantly, eat at least one meal at Macau Kitchen. You never know which moment will become a core memory, or which bite will change your life!