Time with the Company: 4 years
Born in Holland and having lived in many different countries, I did not know a great deal about Barratt before I joined the group except that it was a volume house builder across the UK. I studied Real Estate Management at Oxford Brookes University and after graduating I joined Barratt on the first graduate programme - nearly four years ago now.
The programme was very attractive as it was the first nationwide graduate scheme for a housebuilder. I was one of 55 new graduates for the business and it was acclaimed in the sector as the best graduate programme. I also was attracted to work for Barratt with the significant opportunities for career progression.
I am based at the Barratt West London division and in my role as Land Buyer I get to engage with Land Agents, Land Owners and source opportunities. What I enjoy the most about my role is that it is challenging, dynamic, team orientated and fulfilling as I get to deliver high quality development opportunities to the business.
As a Land Buyer at Barratt West London we are often dealing with challenging mixed use schemes in areas of high density. Complex issues often arise such as large basements, building in proximity to the Thames and challenging planning applications. The lack of availability of land in London means that we have to be open-minded in looking at any potential development opportunity.
A recent scheme I worked on was the former Travis Perkins, Battersea Park Road, Wandsworth. This was a subject to planning deal with Travis Perkins for 64 apartments and the handing back of 4,000 sq ft of retail space to Travis Perkins. We have recently got a planning permission for this and are looking to start on site in September 2011
I would recommend Barratt as a loyal employer who reward hard work and entrepreneurship. During my time I have been supported