New Starter: Welcome Poppy!

We are thrilled to introduce our newest team member, Poppy Cunningham, who has already demonstrated her quick thinking and expertise through our rapid fire Q&A session this week.

What made Virtus stand out?
I was impressed with how much the team already recognised the importance of implementing more sustainable practices within the construction industry, and how much opportunity there was to grow our business in this way. Its great to see a main contractor seeing ESG as an essential part of every project, rather than just a set of tick box exercises that can be ignored. 

What makes you passionate about ESG in the construction industry?

One reason I find sustainability and ESG so interesting is that it is constantly changing and evolving. Five years ago, companies did not have half the resource that sustainability teams are afforded now, and we would have seen very little requirements driven by our clients. Carbon emissions and reductions have been at the centre of sustainability conversations for many years now, however, I believe we are starting to see a shift to a more holistic approach to saving the environment. The importance of biodiversity for our planet is becoming part of everyday conversations, and this is reflected in the recent introduction of the Biodiversity Net Gain legislation in England. I hope that during the next 10 years, we start to see developers and designers making space for nature as a priority. By the time I retire, I hope we have completely green cities and skylines.

I also love working in big teams and learning from people in all different disciplines. Working as an ESG expert in construction means that I rely on the expertise of my site teams to deliver anything successfully, I love how willing and open everyone at Virtus has been so far to embrace the changes an ESG strategy will bring to the company.

What do you most hope to bring to Virtus?
I am so exited to get stuck into developing and implementing a meaningful ESG strategy, I feel that there is so much opportunity, which is made more achievable by the enormous support I have already had from senior members of staff. I’d like to be able to drive the circular economy by changing behaviours and attitudes towards waste, seeing this as a valuable resource. I would also like to help upskill the workforce and supply chain, our industry is lacking in green skills currently and there is so much more knowledge to share than just carbon, carbon, carbon. There are so many elements within ESG, such as biodiversity, new innovative construction methods, biobased materials and more, there really is something to inspire everyone. I am also exited to start seeing how Virtus’ projects can positively impact the communities we are working in, getting the teams involved in inspiring the next generation into the industry, and leaving lasting benefits such as green spaces and cleaner air. Finally I would love to have a positive impact on our own team and employees, I believe a business cannot be truly sustainable if its people do not feel safe and happy at work. I want to build on the already brilliant energy here, creating a truly inclusive environment for everyone.

Do you have a career highlight?
Last year, I got the opportunity to present at the United Nations SDG Leaders Summit in New York, US. After taking part in the UN Global Compact Innovator Accelerator programme in 2023, I worked as part of a team who developed a solution for datacentre clients to be able to capture and redistribute waste heat form their buildings, providing heat to vulnerable members of the community, while reducing the energy demand on the grid. Our pitch was selected as the only UK team to attend and present at the SDG Leaders Summit during New York Climate Week.

What did you study?
I studied Geology and Physical Geography at Brighton Uni, which I loved.

Any interesting past jobs?
Randomly I spend my first 5 years of employment working as an asbestos, legionella and contaminated land surveyor, both in the UK and in Melbourne, Australia. I don’t really know how I ended up doing that apart from applying for any jobs that would have me after university. Looking back, although the technical skills might not be most relevant to my career now, I can see how much that job developed my confidence.  I also got to work in some cool places such as the MCG stadium in Melbourne.

Do you have any hobbies? How do you switch off from work?
I love running, having finally completed my first marathon this April in London which I loved. I also love to cycle to work and occasionally a little further down to the seaside.

What are you currently binge watching?
I am not a massive TV/Film fan but currently enjoying the Olympics.

What’s your coffee order?
Espresso Martini.

Describe yourself in 3 words.
Positive, organised & small.

Any guilty pleasure?
Half a pack of custard creams with a cup of tea in the evening , most evenings.

Tell us something about yourself that not many people know?
I used to play a lot of football and came very close to leaving sixth form to study BTEC sport and play for Chelsea academy.