Thomas Atherton

For Thomas Atherton, climate impact has long been more than an interest. It has been a defining force throughout his career. Today, as VP Strategy & Corporate Development at Einride, one of Europe’s leading climate tech companies, he works at the intersection of strategy, operations, and leadership in a fast-growing organization transforming the future of transport.

In his role, Thomas supports Einride’s CEO across a wide range of strategic initiatives and operational priorities. The position requires adaptability, problem-solving, and a constant focus on execution.

“The core guiding principle for the role is to have a ‘get-things-done’ mentality, driving the company’s top priorities forward and resolving obstacles to success.”

Thomas acts as both an enabler for the executive team and a key link between the CEO and the wider organization, helping ensure smooth internal operations while managing strategic projects. It is a role he describes as both intense and rewarding.

“It’s fun, fast-paced, and a fantastic way to learn a lot in a short time.”

Einride’s mission was a natural fit for Thomas’s ambitions. Having followed the company’s development for years, he saw an opportunity to combine his passion for climate solutions with a role that drew on his previous experience in banking, investing, and consulting.

“Climate has always been a driving force in my career, and Einride is one of the most impactful companies in the climate tech space.”

The multifaceted nature of his current role also appealed to him personally, allowing him to connect insights from several industries while gaining firsthand experience of scaling a high-growth company.

Before joining Einride, Thomas completed an MSc in Economics at SSE. His interest in the subject began during his bachelor’s studies, particularly in behavioral and macroeconomics, and SSE offered an opportunity to deepen that knowledge while expanding into new business and finance disciplines.

He speaks warmly about the academic environment and community he encountered at the School.

“The SSE economics faculty has excellent researchers and professors and, above all, is a friendly and inspirational department to be part of.”

Alumni perspective

I got to learn and discover precisely what I wanted in the intersection between business, economics, and policy, plus more that I otherwise would not have been naturally exposed to like data science. The school has also been instrumental in supporting me through internships and graduate employment, and I don’t think I would be able to enjoy my current job so much without my SSE foundation.
Thomas Atherton
VP Strategy & Corporate Development at Einride

For current students, Thomas encourages curiosity and ambition, emphasizing the importance of exploring different interests and making the most of the opportunities available during university life.

“Don’t hold back in pursuing your interests and ambitions, and explore different fields while you can.”

Reflecting on his own time at SSE, he describes the environment as highly supportive, a place where trying new things and following personal passions often leads to unexpected opportunities and long-term success.

When asked to summarize his experience at SSE in just three words, Thomas’s answer is simple:

Fun, supportive, and inspirational!”