Susan, a seasoned sustainability leader and now Non-Exec Director, Commercial and Sustainability Leadership Consultant, created the placement to support Phoebe’s research into the sustainability activities of St Martin-in-the-Fields (SMITF), where Susan also serves as a Non-Executive Director advising on social impact.
“I learnt a lot about sustainability I didn’t previously know,” Phoebe reflects. “For example, I discovered what boreholes are and how they’re used for cooking purposes. I developed skills in gathering and evaluating information and presenting it clearly—skills that will really help with the independent study I’ll be doing at university next year.”
Over the course of the placement, Phoebe spent two days researching SMITF’s policies and public information before presenting her findings and recommendations in a slideshow presentation to Susan and her colleagues Lucy and Ryan.
Susan says supporting Hulme students in this way is both rewarding and essential:
“This type of experience allows students to explore their interests whilst building confidence in their abilities, understanding more about potential career routes, and considering how they might choose to add value to the world. Whether going on to further education or straight into work, having real-world experience is undoubtedly an advantage to students, and develops the skills which I look for when recruiting. I was delighted to help Phoebe because supporting the next generation to think critically about sustainability is not just rewarding, it’s essential.”
Susan’s own career shows the power of adaptability and purpose-driven work. After senior leadership roles at Thought Clothing, Charles Tyrwhitt, and well-known brands including Racing Green, Fat Face, Warehouse, and Crew Clothing, she is now shaping the ESG strategy of major consumer companies and recently joined the board of British Wool.
For Phoebe, the placement offered more than a glimpse into a career in sustainability—it gave her a model of how alumni connections can open doors and build confidence:
“Susan, Ryan and Lucy were brilliant at communicating with me and supplying all the resources I needed. It was a very valuable, insightful experience.”
A Call to Alumni
This story is a powerful reminder of how Hulme alumni can make a tangible difference. By offering work placements, mentoring, or sharing professional expertise, former pupils help current students explore careers, develop independence, and gain the real-world skills that set them apart.
If you are an Old Hulmeian who can offer a work experience placement or mentorship, the Development Office would love to hear from you. Your time, knowledge, and connections can inspire and equip the next generation—just as Susan Millin has done for Phoebe.
