Ramboll_Logo_Cyan_RGB_402x85px

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kal Ali’s experience of being empowered and encouraged as he pursued a qualification that has helped him transform his future

Kal has worked at Ramboll for five years. He joined as an apprentice within our finance department and is now a Business Controller, becoming a Chartered Management Accountant in 2021. Kal also co-chairs the LBGTQ+ network. 

On getting the foundation he needed to succeed at Ramboll…

From day one, I have felt valued, supported and developed. Being able to come to a company and gain experience while studying an apprenticeship really gave me the foundation I needed to succeed in a career. Joining Ramboll has been life changing for me, it's been the biggest opportunity in my life so far. Coming from quite a working-class background where I never really thought it was an option to have a career, to have all those barriers and worries removed and put in a position where I'm studying an amazing qualification? It was just everything I could have dreamed of. The secret to progressing at Ramboll is to be open to new experiences, be willing to try new things, look to make a difference and build relationships. I've always said you get further in life by building bridges.

On opportunities to make a difference…

One of the first things that struck me when I started was the employee engagement programme; it became clear that I had joined a company that obviously cared about their employees and the way they're moving forward. I was approached not long after I started to lead the programme in my region and that was my first foray into the broader opportunities at Ramboll. Even though I was in a junior finance role, someone obviously felt that I might have the skills and attitude to make a difference, not just in my work but outside of my remit too. 
Since then I've been really encouraged to get involved in all manner of aspects of the business, including the LGBTQ+ network. My involvement in employee networks has made a huge difference to who I am as a person. So much of what I've learned, I've learned from being involved in the networks and being able to end the day feeling like I've made a difference to the culture here at Ramboll is hugely rewarding. 

On balancing his work and personal life through flexible working…

It’s important to me to have balance between work and personal life. The flexibility at Ramboll gives me the opportunity to invest in myself, whether that was studying during my apprenticeship, planning my wedding, taking a longer lunch break to go for a walk, or going to see to our horse. Flexible and hybrid working makes a big difference. It means I can look at my calendar and judge whether I need to be in the office  - we’re able to choose and be empowered to work in the way that's best for us and are trusted to make those decisions.

 

On feeling valued…

The culture here is brilliant. On a day-to-day basis I feel valued, I'm stretched, and I'm challenged  but it’s all within a safe environment. I'm constantly developing my own skills and achieving my goals at the same time. I've never once felt like I can't ask for help due to a fear of getting it wrong. I don't always get it right, but when I don't, it's never an issue.
Ramboll wants to make a difference to its employees and society, and I think it shows in everything we do. It's a company that really knows it's on a journey, is always taking steps in the right direction to get there, bringing everyone it can along the way, whether it's clients or employees.

On learning from his Ramboll colleagues…

Leadership is hands down, one of the most important things for our culture. If it's not right there, it's not going to be right with the rest of the company. And that's something you really do see – it is very strong at the top. 
The people here massively influence me and I'm lucky to be surrounded by so many role models, whether it's my direct line managers, apprentices or some of my stakeholders. I'm surrounded by colleagues who I'm learning from every day.

“The company’s values run through everything we do”

Trina Minchella talks about the way Ramboll’s culture, values and flexible working are helping her achieve more than she thought possible. Read more...

“They understood my passion and found me wonderful opportunities” 

Emily on her non-linear career journey and how Ramboll fostered her passion for digital design, enabling her to create and explore exciting opportunities. Read more...

Flexible and hybrid working

We know how important it is to achieve the right balance of where, when and how much you work. It’s why Ramboll employees have the opportunity to work their hours. Read more...