Name: Iulia Roman

Title: Strategist

Current residence: San Diego

Hometown: Santa Barbara

Fun fact: I was born in Transylvania which, believe it or not, is a real place.‍‍‍

Tell us about your background. How did you end up at tPX?

I graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a major in Environmental Studies and a minor in professional writing. For seven years, I worked in the environmental consulting field, writing and managing environmental impact reports for land use development projects to ensure regulatory compliance during the project permitting process. 

Although this experience helped me grow professionally — and gave me a broad understanding of environmental issues — I had a craving to make a bigger impact in my work and be able to think more creatively. I became increasingly curious about the world of corporate sustainability, and I knew that was the next step in my career. 

I began networking in the field and was eventually introduced to thinkPARALLAX, which immediately caught my interest. When I found out about the open Strategist position, I knew it was the ideal opportunity to blend my skills and passions. I’m incredibly grateful for the journey that led me here and for being a part of a fantastic team that allows me to work on projects that are meaningful to me. 

What’s your favorite part of your job?

I love collaborating with so many talented team members and passionate clients who are genuinely energized by sustainability. It’s inspiring to work alongside passionate and like-minded individuals. 

thinkPARALLAX’s purpose is to inspire fresh perspectives on sustainable business transformation. What perspective do you bring to tPX, our clients, and/or our industry?

My background as an environmental consultant allowed me to understand complex environmental issues and translate them in a way the public could understand. I am eager to bring these skills to thinkPARALLAX and help translate technical concepts in creative and engaging ways. Sustainability is always evolving, and I’m excited to continue to learn and contribute fresh and innovative perspectives to the field.

What’s a project you’ve worked on (at tPX or a previous role) that you really enjoyed or that felt really meaningful?

In one of my consulting roles, I helped with the development of a sustainable agriculture facility. My role involved facilitating discussions with stakeholders — including farmers, CPG groups and businesses, key organizations, and industry partners — to develop plans for the facility with the shared goal of bringing economic opportunities for farmers and small food producers as well as increasing access to local and healthy food in the community. It was really meaningful to bring together a variety of voices and unite them toward a shared goal. 

What causes are you most interested in?

I am interested in causes that combat climate change, and I try to implement sustainable practices in my personal life as much as I can. I am also passionate about human rights, reproductive rights, and environmental justice issues. 

What brings you joy outside of work?‍

Spending quality time with friends, enjoying a concert or live music, traveling, and staying active through running, workout classes, or outdoor activities.