Time with Company: 15 years, 5 months

My perception of Barratt before I joined the company in 1996 was that of a large company who built new houses.  I associated the company with the helicopter advert on TV! I did not realise Barratt were building in South Wales until I did some research before my interview.

I was attracted to Barratt because the rate of pay for part time hours was very attractive and the hours fitted around my family commitments.  The reality of working for Barratt is that it is a very driven company lead by determined people.  It expects its employees to be dedicated to its vision which is to be recognised as the nation’s leading house builder and to create communities where people aspire to live.  To do this you have to be capable of delivering on all aspects of the role whether it be building and maintaining professional relationships with our colleagues and business partners, improving our contribution to protecting the environment or delivering exceptional customer care to all our purchasers.

Although we are a very driven company Barratt has a sound support structure and encourages respect and to share best practice creating a pleasant and happy working environment. The best part of my job is the satisfaction I get from coaching and mentoring newer members of the team and watching them develop into confident and successful sales advisers.  This results in us all achieving our sales targets which makes me immensely proud as a sales manager.  There are always new challenges to overcome every day and this makes the workplace exciting and different – no two days are ever the same!

After school I went on to college for 2 years where I studied a secretarial course and the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry certificate.  I then worked in a solicitor’s office followed by a building contractor.  After having my first daughter I worked part time in an estate agent where I applied for a discretional funding award to study the Certificate in Residential Estate Agency which resulted in a professional qualification.  During this time I saw an advertisement for a part time sales adviser at Barratt and was fortunate to be offered the role.  Although part time for 4 years I always worked extra hours when required and this stood me in good stead when a full time position became available. In May 2006 I was given the opportunity to cover for 5 months for one of the area sales managers which I jumped at, I was then promoted to Development Sales Manager, managing a large development and 3 members of staff.  In May 2007 I was promoted to Area Sales Manager.

I would recommend Barratt as an employer because it is a successful company offering excellent training and career opportunities for those displaying confidence, ability and commitment. There are many rewards - financial, social and competitive but most of all you will be given the opportunity to work in an industry that is both interesting and challenging and will develop your skills.