Game-changing sustainability

Fernando standing in front of red building on mountain
Fernando standing in front of red building on mountain

Game-changing sustainability

I joined McKinsey in Madrid after an internship in a multilateral development bank, where sustainable finance was a topic that was gaining pace. I became a research analyst covering financial markets and assisting the sustainable finance and climate risk service lines. I had been looking to join a competitive organization with a strong position in banking and solid knowledge space, which McKinsey provided. McKinsey is the best opportunity for me to grow in the banking industry and sustainable finance.

I participated in a pioneering climate risk project for a European bank where I realized the sustainability challenge in banking was bigger than I thought. This thrilling experience motivated me to get an official certification in sustainability and climate risk.

The banking sector is reshaping its business model to embed sustainability in everything from the most strategic decisions to operational structures. This disruption is cascading to other industries. I can feel this game-changing spirit among my Sustainability colleagues, many of whom have inspired me to continue gaining knowledge in this exciting field.

Fernando with Spanish flag on snowy mountain
Fernando with Spanish flag on snowy mountain

Internal and external impact on sustainability

McKinsey values its people and their passions. This is evident as colleagues across functions tackle issues that generate positive, enduring change. Particularly impressive to me are our Green Teams, groups of colleagues who proactively launch initiatives in their local offices and communities to reduce McKinsey's environmental footprint. All their work goes beyond their professional duties; it’s voluntary and driven by passion for sustainability. That is something I didn’t expect when I joined McKinsey.

McKinsey is at the core of disruptive discussions on sustainability and climate change, bringing a rich knowledge base and impact focus to the table. For example, some of our recent research on innovative topics across geographies and industries includes voluntary carbon markets, net-zero strategies, climate risk management, or the organizational value of environmental considerations. Having access to this rich data base has helped me to become a topical expert and stay up to date on information relevant in my role.

Fernando in volunteer uniform
Fernando in volunteer uniform

About me

Outside of work, I enjoy hiking and surfing in different spots along the Spanish and Portuguese coasts. Both activities help me disconnect from urban life, while discovering new natural landscapes, meeting locals and having fun.

I am passionate about illustration and stencil art. I recently designed and painted artwork to decorate my favorite Mexican restaurant in Madrid.

Professionally I dedicate myself to environmental sustainability and in my personal life I try to stay present in social matters through volunteer work. During my university years, I participated in volunteering programs in refugee camps in the Balkan region and Southeast Asia. Now, I collaborate with a local NGO that helps soup kitchens through food collections in supermarkets. It is very rewarding and helps me connect with people from diverse backgrounds and personal situations.

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