Academic career or consulting?  

I have been interested in environmental issues since childhood, and my studies sparked a deeper interest in climate change topics. I graduated in 2017 with a master’s degree in Water and Environmental Engineering from Aalto University. I continued to pursue a PhD in climate science and worked at the Finnish Meteorological Institute for five years as a climate researcher and modeler. I graduated in 2022 with a PhD specializing in extreme weather events in the Nordic countries.  

I joined Deloitte towards the end of my doctoral studies, contemplating whether to continue an academic career or transition to other roles. Research work allows one to produce valuable information for society, but the academic world is highly theoretical. Encouragement from those close to me led me to consider a career in consulting, which seemed like a good option due to opportunity to work on diverse topics.  

Over the past three years, I have gained extensive insight into the field of sustainability, and my expertise has grown through various projects across different areas. In these projects, I continuously learn about companies’ operational environments and how to apply the knowledge to different businesses and industries. My background as a researcher is particularly beneficial in handling large data sets and synthesizing information, which are crucial skills in consulting as well.  

A diverse role that constantly challenges you to learn new things  

In my work, I get to develop both substantive expertise and industry knowledge, as well as project management skills. For example, I have served as a project leader in client assignments preparing for EU sustainability reporting (CSRD) by conducting materiality assessments, mapping information to be reported, and implementing reporting processes. I have also acted as a specialist in numerous projects related to climate risk and scenario analyses, as well as greenhouse gas emissions, and have had the opportunity to develop Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) data roadmaps. 

As Deloitte is an international company, the primary language of our team and many of our clients is English. Our international network includes specialists in many areas, such as product carbon footprint calculations or industry-specific sustainability issues. We also collaborate closely with other teams on assignments related to, for instance, sustainability reporting. I regularly meet with our climate network experts and have worked as a climate risk specialist in international projects.  

I see that a person who thrives and succeeds as a sustainability professional is someone who can see both the big picture and the finer details, and who keeps up with the constantly evolving sustainability regulations and explores new areas of expertise. There is a high demand for specific expertise in various sustainability areas. Currently, there is a particular need for specialists in human rights, circularity and integrating sustainability into the company’s operating model and strategy. Additionally, biodiversity and sustainable supply chain are increasingly becoming prominent topics and are frequently discussed by our clients. 

Fun Facts About Erika  

The latest book I read or podcast I listened to: I am currently listening to the latest installment of Satu Rämö's detective series, Rakel. It provides a nice counterbalance and reset from work. 

My secret skill that isn't on my CV: I am known for my organizational skills, whether it's planning parties, arranging trips, or managing work tasks.  

My "happy place" in the world: A small town called Moliets on the west coast of France, where we spend summers at my husband's family's summer house with friends and family.  

Erika Médus
Sustainability services
erika.medus@deloitte.fi