Izabela Zawartka
Location: London
Qualifications: MSc International Social and Public Policy (London School of Economics), BA European Social and Political Studies: Economics and German (University College London)
I joined SQW in August of 2022 after graduating from the Research stream of the MSc degree in International Social and Public Policy at the London School of Economics. Having gained a foundation in data collection and analysis methods, I was eager to apply my skills to policy research and was drawn to the company due to its diverse project work and emphasis on making a real-world impact.
Since joining SQW, I have had a chance to work across the company’s areas of expertise and gain practical experience with econometrics, survey and monitoring data analysis, literature reviews and other desk-based research. I have really enjoyed working in the business support, knowledge transfer and innovation spaces, having been involved in projects such as a review of the business support and inward investment landscape in a northern City Region, an evaluation of the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) scheme for UKRI, and a review of international work experience practices.
Additionally, being able to apply and further develop my skills in quantitative analysis has been particularly rewarding. Through project work, including analysis to increase the evidence base around youth work for DCMS and a study of characteristics and objectives of manufacturing SMEs in relation to the environment, I have gained valuable experience in the practicalities of data analysis. What is more, monthly meetings with SQW’s quant group to discuss statistical methods allow me to further expand my knowledge base and keep up to date with emerging analytical techniques.
SQW offers an incredibly supportive environment for Research Consultants, both with regards to formal training in research methods and techniques, and ongoing mentorship from senior colleagues. I have learned an enormous amount in my time at the company, and a lot of it comes down to encouragement to contribute to client meetings and reports or offer suggestions throughout the project cycle.
