Meet Nicole Fuller

Meet Nicole Fuller – Senior Consultant, Sydney

From computer science to marine studies and ESG, Nicole’s story is about following your passions to find a career that will help you make a meaningful impact in the world. 

Personal life

WHAT IS A FUN FACT THAT WE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU … YET!

I actually studied computer science for a semester before switching to marine science! My mum works in tech, so I thought I’d follow in her footsteps, but I quickly realised I wasn’t cut out for it. I found my passion in marine science and never looked back.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE MARINE ANIMAL? 

My favourite marine animal is the leafy sea dragon—they’re just so intricate and I have a tattoo of one! 

I volunteered at AQWA for a year, where I got to feed the animals and get in the water with them. It was an amazing experience. I learnt puffer fish will spit water at you when they want food, and baby turtles love nibbling on your toes.

WHAT FIRST SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN ESG?

My interest in ESG stems from a lifelong passion for the environment. I’ve been a vegetarian since I was 14, and sustainability has always been a core value of mine. Naturally, I was drawn to a career that aligns with those beliefs, and that’s how I found my way into ESG. It allows me to make a meaningful impact in an area I’m deeply committed to.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I love spending time outdoors, especially hiking and snorkelling when I get the chance, and the weather is good. Cooking and baking are also big passions! 

I’m a fan of artsy films and love catching live gigs whenever possible, especially indie bands.

Professional Life

BEFORE WORKING IN ESG, YOU STUDIED A BACHELOR OF MARINE STUDIES. WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THIS FIELD?

My passion for the environment has always been a huge part of who I am, so studying marine science felt like a natural choice. As a kid, I spent my summers at the beach, completely in love with the ocean. That connection stuck with me, so when it came time to choose what to study after computer science didn’t work out, marine science felt like the perfect fit.

WHY DID YOU SWITCH FROM MARINE STUDIES TO ESG?

While marine science was a natural fit for my love of the ocean and conservation, transitioning to ESG felt like a way to make a bigger impact. Instead of working as a researcher, where the work can be a lot more specialised, ESG allows me to drive sustainability at a broader level. It’s exciting to be part of something so dynamic, and it aligned perfectly with my passion for the environment and creating positive change.

WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU ABOUT WORKING WITHIN ESG?

How different every company’s sustainability journey can be. In an internal role I worked in, we had a lot of mature ESG practices already in place, so coming into RSM and a consulting role really opened my eyes. 

Many companies are just starting out on their journey and helping them develop their sustainability reports or climate-related risks from the ground up has been both challenging and rewarding.

Life at RSM

IF YOU HAD TO SUMMARISE YOUR TIME AT RSM INTO ONE SENTENCE, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY?

My time at RSM has been fast-paced and dynamic, with constantly evolving work that’s challenged me to stay resilient, all while having the privilege of working alongside some amazing people.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CULTURE IN YOUR OFFICE/DIVISION?

The culture of the ESG team is super collaborative and supportive, and we make sure to have a lot of fun. There’s always a positive energy in the team, and we’re constantly bouncing ideas off each other. We come from diverse backgrounds and experiences, which brings different perspectives and helps us approach our work in new ways.

WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED THROUGHOUT YOUR CAREER?

Throughout my career, I’ve faced challenges like building credibility, especially with clients new to ESG work. Since ESG can seem abstract or overwhelming to those unfamiliar with it, gaining trust has been critical. I manage by constantly learning, staying up to date with regulations, so I’m always ready to answer any client questions. Plus, delivering great work really helps build trust over time. 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG WOMEN AND GIRLS INTERESTED IN PURSUING CAREERS IN SCIENCE OR SUSTAINABILITY?

Follow your passions! Science and sustainability are all about new ideas, and your perspective matters. Don't worry if the path seems unclear at first; keep exploring to find out what you like. 

Find support in mentors, whether that’s a lecturer or a coworker, because someone to bounce ideas off is so helpful and builds your confidence.