Time with company: 4 Years
I graduated from Loughborough University in Mathematics and it was the graduate programme that initially attracted me to the company. I knew Barratt were a volume housebuilder but the only thing I could remember was the helicopter as a child. The graduate programme looked well-structured with great personal development opportunities and a fantastic support structure. The size of Barratt Developments was also an attraction, as at the time they were expanding with acquisition of David Wilson Homes and now strive to be the no1 house builder in the country.
Barratt are keen to invest in their people to developing them. The graduate scheme was great for this, It gave me exposure to all aspects of the company, with continuous development which has ultimately led to where I am now. Barratt is really aware of the need to identity and develop future managers, and the graduate programme is at the heart of this.
The Graduate programme lasted for two years and I then assumed the role of Assistant Accountant in the North Midlands Division. During this time I studied and successfully completed CIMA having received financial support from Barratt. 6 months later I was then promoted to the role of Regional Accountant for the East region, reporting directly to the Regional Finance Director and Regional Managing Director, covering four housebuilding divisions and the Bedrooms division.
Barratt is a hard working company, and you are expected to work hard. If you are willing to invest time and effort, this is readily recognised and rewarded. I have recently been promoted to Finance Manager, heading up the Finance function for Barratt Northampton, and the delivery of the end product is certainly the most rewarding part of the Job.