Apprentice Surveyor Review

I work within the retail team at Savills and my role is to provide agency and consultancy services to both retail clients, such as MetroBank, White Stuff and M&S and both private and institutional landlord clients. I spend a lot of time on the road visiting different towns across the country where we are active.

I have learned a lot of new skills. I have learned how to accurately measure a retail premises, and then attribute a value to it based on comparable evidence from the surrounding environment. I have also learned about the overall process from initial occupation, to reviewing the rent on a standard basis to ensure it accurately reflects the current market, and also the freehold sale or purchase of units.

I thoroughly enjoy the programme and the freedom I have to work and learn in my own way. I have every Friday off to study and am supported with study leave when I need it. I have been given as much responsibility as I desire/can cope with and feel that this route has given me a massive breadth of experience to launch my career with post-qualification.

My programme is very well organised. the University College of Estate Management provide regular workshops in a convenient location to supplement the vast online resources. Savills also complement this with their own dedicated training events to ensure we are always one step ahead of the game in our knowledge and experience levels.

I receive all the support I require from my employer, without it feeling intrusive. We have regular contact with graduate/apprentice support individuals and a safe environment to discuss any worries with our experience, remuneration or working environment. My line manager is also invested in ensuring I am gaining all the relevant experience without being over-exerted.

I have only just commenced working towards my professional qualification but have already been provided with a schedule of focussed workshops and CPD events as well as a detailed schedule where I can input all my experiences and progress. This will mean that I will be able to keep on top of all the requirements of the process and prevent me being overwhelmed.

My qualification gives me a holistic knowledge of the property industry. This is especially beneficial when working in a large company as it allows me to identify when I need assistance from other service lines. It also means I have been able to build a great network across the company and I can provide my client with a more rounded service through cross-selling business.

Yes there are a lot of activities. I play in a summer hockey league which is against other property companies including some of our clients. This is a great way to meet people from across the business. There are also quarterly social events within our office and we are establishing a networking platform for 'Next-Gen' professionals at Savills which I have been fortunate enough to be a part of.

Yes

Because the working environment is so brilliant, and the support and training you receive is also exceptional. I also like that we do not rotate as it means when I qualify I will have 5 years' experience in my role, and will make me a market leader in my age group.

I would advise they research thoroughly what aspect of real estate they are interested in. This is because Savills offer a unique opportunity for you to establish yourself and carve a niche from a very young age. I would also advise them to network as widely as possible an be friendly and open to everyone regardless of their seniority or position.