Laurence Copson

Studying MSc Climate Change, Management & Finance

Why did you choose to study MSc Climate Change, Management & Finance and why specifically at Imperial College Business School?

My decision to study on the MSc Climate Change, Management & Finance was driven by the fact that I wished to pursue a career in the area of cleantech, but was unsure as to the range of career options available and what first steps to take in this emerging sector. From the links to industry, external speakers and academic content, the programme provided both a fulfilling learning experience and a fantastic platform to uncover answers related to my career options.

What was the most surprising thing about the programme?

I was (happily) surprised by the mix of academic backgrounds amongst the cohort. The range from mathematics to environmental sciences to business/economics provided an enriching learning experience particularly during group coursework.

Career & professional development

How has the Business School helped develop your career? 

The most notable contribution is that I have decided to start my career in a direction that was completely off my radar before starting the programme. This is testament to how the programme allowed me to expand my view of career options available.

How do you plan to use the skills and knowledge you gained during the programme within your career going forward?

Hopefully in interesting and unpredictable directions! The strength of the programme is the wide applicability of the skills and knowledge taught, which should be of high use to anyone considering a career related to climate change.

What is your current role like?

I currently work as an Investment Analyst at BBOXX, which focuses on providing decentralised clean energy access to off-grid populations, predominantly in Sub-Saharan Africa. My work focuses on two main areas. Firstly, I am involved in the raising of new capital to finance our expansion into new and existing markets. Secondly, I work on understanding the changing economics and market dynamics of the energy access sector, to aid decision-making concerning our market offering and business model.

The alumni network

In what way is remaining connected to your alumni network important to you?

Imperial alumni, both from the Business School and the wider university, have successfully infiltrated almost all ranks in the cleantech sector, from government to clean energy investors to cleantech start-ups! This valuable alumni network will only grow with new programmes such as MSc Climate Change, Management & Finance joining the likes of MSc Sustainable Energy Futures and MSc Environmental Technology. I’m excited to participate in events, talks, meet-ups, research etc., which can utilise this fantastic network.

Advice for future students

What advice would you give to a prospective student considering studying the same Business School programme as you?

I would strongly recommend the programme to any prospective student who is fascinated by the issues and challenges of climate change, whether they are focused on climate risks, mitigation or adaptation solutions.