Michaela Orsmond

Describe what the Mott Mac Life means to you in three words

Excellence, curiosity, ingenuity.

What do you enjoy about working here?

I’m inspired by our team every single day. It lifts you up to see the talent around you. It’s why clients approach us each day, asking us to help them solve some of the most complex challenges in the world.

Tell us about your specialism and why you chose it

I believe at its core, the law is dignity provided fairly to all. The profession called to me as an opportunity to advocate for those who cannot. The legal professional is tied to the highest levels of morals and ethics. The opportunity to be a Legal Officer and serve in the Air Force was an immense privilege (being a lawyer in uniform is not like the Tom Cruise movies though). Joining Mott MacDonald as a client manager has allowed me to build on my experience leading high performing teams, delivering and advising on projects with national security and defence outcomes, as well as the continued opportunity to solve complex challenges.

Why did you choose to join Mott MacDonald?

The calibre of the talent attracted me to the team. Today, I value our team’s approach and goal to deliver with integrity for our clients every single day.

What have you learnt while working at Mott MacDonald?

Honestly? So much. The learning opportunities are the best part of my job. I’ve loved building on my operational experience and background since joining the team.

How do you demonstrate technical excellence in your work? 

Technical excellence is central to everything we do. Understanding the exact technical support that our client needs is the first step. Then, there’s a real rush in finding someone within our team who can support our client in a way that they didn’t think was possible. Our superpower is often in our rich experience, coupled with brilliant technical application.

How do you contribute to Mott MacDonald making a difference to people and the planet?

When we say that we care about the communities where we operate and the communities impacted by our programs, we truly mean it. We embed our values as the core of our project delivery. Sometimes making a difference is as small as empowering a team to pitch their carbon reduction idea to the client. Helping to weave together viable solutions and client needs, alongside our commitment to doing better by communities and the planet.

What are your career highlights and achievements?

I am the seventh generation in my family to practice law; it’s been a big highlight and privilege to carry on that family tradition.

I’ve been very fortunate to work with multiple fixed wing and rotary platforms. There’s nothing like a little jet noise to get you up in the morning.

Coming from an active military background, I’ve often been the only female in a room, but I’m seeing that actively changing, which is a massive highlight. We stand on the shoulders of the giants before us, and I’m grateful to benefit from the hard work of pioneers and advocates before me.

I reached the rank of Squadron Leader in the Air Force. As an active reservist, I find it immensely rewarding to have the opportunity to have this fast paced and interesting civilian career while still being able to serve my country. I’m grateful to Mott MacDonald for supporting me as a reservist.