Victoria McCreadie, Graduate, London Residential Development
After a Business degree from Cardiff University and work experience with both a
chartered surveying practice and a residential property developer, I decided that
a career as a chartered surveyor would be an exciting opportunity to contribute
to the quality of the built environment. I read an MSc in Real Estate at Reading
University and found that residential property was the area which held the most
interest for me.
Knight Frank is well known as leaders in this field and as such I applied to its
London scheme. After the first round, which was a one-to-one interview with a partner,
there were a series of more technical interviews to asses our grasp of the issues
we would be dealing with on a daily basis as a surveyor.
I was extremely proud to be selected for the Residential scheme, not only because
Knight Frank are well respected and identified as an industry leader, but also because
they are known amongst graduates for the focus it places on you as an individual,
as well as an employee.
My first rotation has been with the Valuations team in the London Residential Development
department. This has involved undertaking appraisals and site valuations to assess
the financial and commercial risk of a development project, on behalf of banks,
investors and developers.
During my first year, I have been involved with a wide range of valuations, from
small developments to landmark prime mixed use schemes and major new out of town
schemes. These projects have required me to liaise with the Planning, Research,
Affordable Housing, New Homes Agency, Building Consultancy, Commercial Valuations
and the Public Sector departments.
Knight Frank is superb at preparing graduates for their APC. The residential route
offers a well structured training and support programme, including the provision
of a counsellor, an offer of a daily mentor and quarterly progress reviews. The
general willingness throughout the company to offer guidance and encouragement to
ensure graduates receive the best experience is particularly important.
I thrive on the challenges of deadlines and the variety of the work. My vibrant,
outgoing personality fits in well with the 'can do' team spirit and inclusive culture
at Knight Frank. No two days are the same and the office is always buzzing and busy.
The social side of the company is just as fulfilling. Knight Frank encourages graduates
to get involved in social events both inside and outside of the office. I thoroughly
enjoy playing for the netball and softball teams and was recently part of the team
that competed in the Property Week triathlon, which was both rewarding and great
fun.
It can be daunting starting a new career, however, so far I have found my time here
to be a great way of meeting different people and making new friends in a contagious
work hard, play hard environment.