Getting to know Alex Cheung, Graduate Asset Management Consultant

What was your background before joining Aqua Consultants?

Aqua is my first full-time role after graduating with a master’s in chemical engineering from Loughborough University.

To be honest, I hadn’t originally planned to go into the water industry; in fact, I hadn’t even considered it until my third year. I took an optional module called Water Resources, Sustainability, and Climate Change (mainly because of the sustainability aspect), but I ended up finding the water side of things fascinating. That led me to choose a water-focused research project, and I haven’t really looked back since.

What do you do at Aqua Consultants?

I’m a Graduate Asset Management Consultant and I’ve worked on a variety of projects so far, from business planning to storm overflow data analysis, gaining exposure to different aspects of the water industry.

Each project presents a new challenge, helping me build a broad understanding of the sector.

What excites you about coming to work?

The variety of work keeps me engaged; no two projects are the same and each one brings a new challenge. I enjoy constantly learning and solving fresh problems, which makes project work a great fit for me.

I also really enjoy working with different teams. Everyone has their own perspective and expertise, so collaborating with colleagues and bouncing ideas around makes the job even more interesting.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I love to travel and enjoy anything active, especially hiking. I recently climbed Kilimanjaro and plan to take on more adventures soon.

I’ve also trained in martial arts for most of my life and recently started running, though I’m still deciding if I actually enjoy it or if it’s just a New Year’s resolution!

What are you looking forward to over the next 12 months?

I’m excited to expand my knowledge by getting involved in the gas sector. Water is my bread and butter, but learning more about gas will give me a broader understanding of the utilities industry. It’ll be a great opportunity to develop new skills and see how different infrastructure challenges are tackled.

I’ve also recently become the events lead for the Institute of Water Midlands Area Committee, so I’m excited to arrange some fun and interesting events and webinars.

What is the biggest challenge you see in the environmental sector in the next 10 years?

This is a tough one to be honest, because there are so many important issues, but I think one of the biggest challenges we will be facing – both in the UK and globally – will be tacking water scarcity and resilience in the face of climate change.