Working in a climate that's ripe for change

Henry Pallister-Dixon, who left RGS in 2010, changed the course of his career in audit recovery in search of something he found much more fulfilling. After studying for a master’s degree in climate change, he now helps companies balance economic, environmental and social factors to ensure a healthy and equitable future

Following A-levels in chemistry, biology and art, Henry Pallister-Dixon studied chemistry at the University of Newcastle. His first job was with an audit recovery company, but he soon realised it wasn’t the correct path for him.

“While I gained valuable experience in analysis and relationship-building, it wasn’t the right fit for me.”

Seeking something more fulfilling, he moved to Copenhagen to study for a master’s degree in climate change: “This allowed me to focus on the social and governance aspects of environmental challenges, alongside adaptation and mitigation strategies.

“After completing my chemistry degree, I struggled to find my footing and wanted a career that allowed me to make a positive impact. Pursuing sustainability has allowed me to align my work with my values, and I feel I’ve succeeded in finding a meaningful path,” he explains.

“I’m deeply passionate about working in this field. The variety of topics I engage with—from biodiversity to climate and human rights—keeps me curious and motivated. It’s also exciting to work in a field that’s growing in complexity and impact.”

He’s grateful, he says, to be working in an industry that strives to create a positive difference, coupled with the opportunity to travel and collaborate with people from all over the world, having built on his skills and experience over the years.

After his master’s, Henry started work with a consulting company in Denmark, advising clients on responsible business practices, sustainability strategies, and diversity initiatives.

His next role was as an engagement manager with a Swedish firm, working with companies on behalf of investors to improve their sustainability performance and later joined an environmental, social and governance (ESG) research and data analytics company, where he helped develop climate strategies, and leading thematic programmes on issues like biodiversity, climate change, and human rights.

In his current role as director at the financial research and data company Morningstar in Copenhagen, where he leads the thematic stewardship team, driving ESG strategies, overseeing engagement efforts with over 300 companies, and supporting clients in achieving their responsible investment goals.

He’s also involved in shaping thought leadership through conferences, client consultations, and public-facing activities.

It’s a challenging and dynamic role: “Every day brings something different! The top priority on my to-do list could involve process improvements, supporting my team with challenges, or addressing client requests and my day often includes meetings with clients to discuss products, clarify engagement details, or support sales efforts. In the afternoon, I might collaborate with colleagues on engagement dialogues—like holding major corporations accountable for their climate strategies.”

The biggest challenge he faced was moving from Copenhagen to Stockholm: “I struggled to settle in and never felt like I fully fitted there, ultimately deciding to return to Copenhagen after two years. However, it was a valuable learning experience that helped me grow personally and professionally.”

His ambition is to try living in yet another country: “My partner, who’s Danish, and I would love to experience a new culture together. Living in Denmark has been eye-opening, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone seeking new perspectives. Although, I suspect we will always end up back here.”

Q: What was the most important thing you learned at RGS?

A: The value of persistence and curiosity. These qualities have served me well in my career and life in general.

Q: What extra-curricular activities were you involved in at RGS, and how valuable were they?

A: I didn’t get as involved as I should have at the time. However, I’ve since learned how valuable those opportunities can be. Being part of activities outside the classroom is one of the best ways to develop new skills, gain experiences, and build social connections.

Q: What do you wish you’d known back then?

A:That the most important advocate for yourself is you! Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and have the confidence to take risks.

Q: What did you want to do or dream about when you were at school?

A:I honestly had no clue back then—and sometimes I still feel unsure! It wasn’t until after university that I found something I was passionate about. It’s important to realise that this is normal, and it’s okay to take time to figure things out.

Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give students interested in a similar career path?

A:Get practical experience within organisations as early as you can! The corporate sustainability space is evolving rapidly, and hands-on exposure will help you keep up with the complexities and developments driven by new legislation and global trends.

Q: Who was your favourite teacher and why?

A:Mr. Duckworth, my art teacher. He really pushed me to think creatively and outside the box - something I still value today.

Q: Who or what inspired you when you were at school?

A:My peers. I’m naturally a bit competitive and being surrounded by intelligent and driven people pushed me to grow and improve, even at that early stage.

Q: What would you say has been your greatest success?

A:Learning Danish has been a major personal achievement. I never thought I was good at languages in school, but living in Denmark motivated me to push through and learn. It’s proof that anyone can learn a new language if they truly want to.

Q: What do you miss most about Ripon?

A:The surrounding landscape. Growing up, I didn’t fully appreciate how beautiful and accessible it was. Now, I look back and realise how lucky I was to live in such a stunning area.