I'm not your standard 'run-of-the-mill' graduate! I read architecture at university, and then worked in an architectural practice for four more years after this. Working there I began to feel that I enjoyed the business aspects of architecture and property more than the design work. Essentially surveying is the 'business of architecture', and so I took the decision to retrain as a surveyor. It's been a great move for me.
I started my first graduate rotation in the Birmingham office's Development department. I thought I was sure that this would be exactly the department I would go into once I qualified, as it would complement my background in architecture. However as I do my APC rotations I get to see in more depth how many other service lines CB Richard Ellis provide and how interesting they all are.
I currently work in Asset Management and manage a number of large pension funds' and institutional investors' property portfolios.
Working in the regions is fantastic for me too. Based in our office is the Chairman of Regional business, Julian Shellard, and so we get regular updates from him on how we are performing compared to London. A bit of friendly competition between offices is always healthy!
