Thomas Atherton

Describe your role and what it is that you do overall and on a day-to-day basis.

I support our CEO in managing strategic projects, day-to-day operations, and smooth running of the internal organisation. Topics vary considerably, as the Chief of Staff is meant to be an enabler to other executives and a two-way gatekeeper between the organisation and the CEO. The core guiding principle for the role is to have a ‘get-things-done’ mentality, driving forward the company’s top priorities and resolving any obstacles to success. It’s fun, fast-paced, and a fantastic way to learn a lot about a lot in a short time frame.

What interested you about the field/company/role you are currently in?

Climate has always been a driving force in my career and Einride is one of the most impactful companies in the climate tech space, so I’ve followed their journey for a long time. The Chief of Staff role is also uniquely interesting for me as it ties together previous experiences I’ve had in banking, investing, and consulting, all while teaching me new things about how to run a high-growth organisation. With such a cool company and great people, it’s been even more enjoyable than I could have expected.

Why did you choose to study your subject area at SSE?

I studied economics for my Bachelor’s degree and found behavioural and macroeconomics fascinating, so wanted to return to university for a Master’s degree in these topics while also branching into some new business and finance areas. The SSE economics faculty has excellent researchers and professors, and above all is a friendly and inspirational department to be a part of. 

How did your time/education at SSE help guide you to the career journey you have embarked on?

Immeasurably! Both through my studies and the Wallenberg International Fellowship Program, I got to learn and discover precisely what I wanted in the intersection between business, economics, and policy, plus more that I otherwise would not have been naturally exposed to like data science. The school has also been instrumental in supporting me through internships and graduate employment, and I don’t think I would be able to enjoy my current job so much without my SSE foundation. 

Following the time at SSE, do you have any words of wisdom or advice you would like to share with our current students?

I would say don’t hold back at all in pursuing your interests and ambitions, and explore different fields while you can. In such a supportive environment, following your passions and trying new things can really only lead to good outcomes, and it has been a pleasure to see my friends from university now thriving in all sorts of roles. 

What are three words that sum up your time at SSE?

Fun, supportive, and inspirational!