SEEP Alumni Story | February 28, 2025

Ambroise Centelles knew he wanted to work on sustainability at a global level. Shortly after graduating from WU Vienna’s Socio-Ecological Economics and Policy (SEEP) Master’s program, he found an opportunity to do just that. Today, as a consultant in the Energy Systems and Climate Action division at the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in Vienna, he is contributing to projects that support the transition to more sustainable energy systems.

During his final semester at SEEP, Centelles secured an internship at UNIDO, where he explored ways to enhance collaboration within the organization. His master’s thesis aligned with this practical experience, helping him understand how international institutions can become more efficient and effective. That early exposure made the transition from student to professional seamless.

“I was able to use my thesis as a way to engage with experts at UNIDO, and that really helped me understand the organization from the inside,” he reflects. “By the time I graduated, I had already built valuable connections, and when a consulting opportunity came up, I was prepared for it.”

His ability to navigate complex international structures – something SEEP strongly prepares students for – helped him secure his current consulting role in Energy Systems and Climate Action immediately after his internship.

Centelles’ career didn’t begin in international organizations. Before SEEP, he spent three years helping an Austrian startup expand into France. While the experience was valuable, he wanted to work on sustainability issues from a broader perspective.

“SEEP provided the interdisciplinary tools I needed to transition into global policy,” he explains. “It helped me understand not just economics, but also the political and social dynamics that shape sustainable development.”

At UNIDO, Centelles works in a division focused on supporting a just energy transition, ensuring that industrial decarbonization efforts take both environmental and social factors into account. His role involves supporting projects that explore sustainable energy solutions, facilitating collaboration within the organization, and helping to streamline operations.

“When tackling food security, for example, the default response is often technological – boosting production, increasing efficiency,” he explains. “But SEEP encouraged me to question these assumptions. What about redistribution? What about rethinking supply chains? Sometimes, the most effective solutions require shifting the way we frame problems.”

By engaging with international experts, he helps ensure that sustainability projects consider the needs of different regions, including those in the Global South, where access to energy and infrastructure development are critical challenges.

For students considering careers in international organizations, Centelles emphasizes the importance of being proactive and engaging with professionals early on.

“SEEP gives you the knowledge, but it’s important to also build relationships and stay curious,” he advises. “Reach out to people in different fields, explore different opportunities, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Many professionals are happy to share their experiences.”

Centelles is committed to making international institutions more efficient and impactful. His background – spanning private-sector innovation and global policy work – gives him a unique perspective on what’s possible. He believes that SEEP’s combination of economic, social, and environmental analysis provides an excellent foundation for those looking to work in policy, consulting, research, or sustainability-focused businesses.

Author: Stefan Salcher