AlumniPaula Cousins

Course studied: BEng(Hons) Chemical Engineering, 1995; MPhil Chemical Engineering, 1997  

Position at time of writing: Chief Strategy and Sustainability Officer, The Weir Group PLC

Tell us a bit about your background

I grew up in a seaside village in the Scottish Highlands. At school I enjoyed maths and science and thought I wanted to be a Forensic Scientist, probably from watching too many crime dramas. However, I realised when I applied for university that engineering offered a vast choice of careers. Engineers are ultimately problem solvers, and that problem solving mindset can be applied to any organisation, in any sector, anywhere in the world.

Why did you choose Strathclyde?

Strathclyde wasn’t my first choice originally – but I was influenced by Unilever. I started my engineering journey on the Unilever Sponsored Student Programme in Port Sunlight, and they ranked Strathclyde in the top 5 universities in the UK for engineering graduate selection at that time. So, I took that a sign that Strathclyde was the one for me.

Where are you now?

I’m currently Weir Group's first Chief Strategy and Sustainability Officer, holding this position since January 2020. My role combines my three favourite topics, strategy, sustainability, and technology, to drive the delivery of Weir’s Purpose – Mining Technology for a Sustainable Future.

The Weir Group works closely with Strathclyde to promote STEM subjects to women and girls. What makes you passionate about these initiatives?

I'm regularly surprised by how many women and girls tell me they weren't encouraged to study STEM and wish they had been. Some were actively discouraged. As a female engineer, and a mother of two daughters, I am extremely grateful that was not my nor their experience.

So, if you know a girl who likes maths, science and problem solving - be the family member, teacher, or friend that encourages her to consider engineering. Preferably before 13-14 years-old when she’s making her subject choices so that’s an option. The opportunity has never been greater for engineers to make a difference.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Without a doubt the opportunity to build and mature Weir’s sustainability strategy. The energy transition can only happen with the transition metals the mining sector delivers. So, we need to enable it to scale up and clean up at the same time - with urgency. What a great time for technology innovation and systems thinking. The perfect “necessity is the mother of invention” moment.