Climbing the career ladder: Susan Kidd

Susan Kidd, senior marine planning manager at The Crown Estate, talks about her most memorable career achievement.

What does your job entail?

The Crown Estate manages the UK seabed, including awarding leases for off shore renewable energy generation. I work with the UK’s marine planning industry to give advice about our role, and ensure that we have regard to statutory marine plans in our decision-making.

How has your career path led to this role?

I started as a town and environmental planner on the Gold Coast in Australia, and worked with the government's transport department. I then moved to the UK, which was a gamble in terms of my career. I joined The Crown Estate just when marine planning was emerging as a discipline.

What is your most memorable achievement?

In 2014, I was on a panel giving evidence to the House of Lords on EU regional marine coordination through planning. It was nerve wracking, but I feel honoured to have contributed to one of the most established political processes in the world.

What career advice would you give to your younger self?

Do what you’re interested in and don’t over-think what ‘type’ of planner you want to be. Different opportunities give you the chance to become involved in other disciplines.