Graduate Planner Review

My main role is to support senior members within my team. This includes assisting on planning applications, writing appraisals, undertaking research and writing reports. No two days are the same; I work on a series of projects every day, and attend meetings with clients, architects and case officers from local councils. I mainly work on residential projects, but my experience so far also includes mixed use and estate regeneration schemes.

Whilst I am still new to the role, I have grown more confident in dealing and communicating with clients, consultants and other members of the Savills team. I believe that my knowledge of planning has improved dramatically and I am better placed to understand, convey and communicate high level planning advice and technical details. I think that my strengths lie in my communication skills and I am grateful that the job presents so many opportunities to deal with a variety of people every day. Although having had experience with site appraisals in my previous job, I feel that I have grown more confident in developing a critical understanding of how to assess sites from a planning perspective

The office environment and general culture at Savills is a very warm and welcoming one, which appreciates the importance of a healthy work / life balance. There are always lots of socials to attend with other grads and members of the team which makes for a really enjoyable experience overall.

Savills are very understanding of the significant work load which I have, managing Savills and university work. I am always given Thursdays each week to work only on University work which helps. I feel that LSBU, the training provider, are less organized. Whilst I can appreciate that the transition to distanced/online learning is a difficult one, there has been a lack of communication regarding coursework, tracking 20% off-the-job training etc. which I feel could be improved dramatically.

As much as I need - no complaints.

As much as I need - the issue is not the support. The issue is the lack of communication.

My qualification is invaluable in terms of its relevance to my daily job. It has without a doubt helps me significantly in my Savills work as I previously did not come from a background in planning.

Yes - lots of social events with other graduates, as well as members of my team. There is running, football, hockey etc. teams to get involved in too. I am told that there are usually many networking events available for unfortunately due to COVID this has not been possible yet.

Yes

Savills has been named The Times Property Graduate Employer of Choice for the 15th consecutive year. I am in no doubt that this is the best employer for my field regarding experience, support and socials.

Prepare thoroughly, ensuring that you really get to grips with a thorough understanding of the company and relevant work that they have been involved with that interests you. Whilst an in-depth knowledge of planning/technical aspects is not necessarily expected, it definitely helps to learn as much as possible prior to any interviews/assessment centers. Finally - its cliché but be yourself. Savills is full of people with a wide range of different interests that lie outside of their job. If you get the chance to talk about your hobbies/interests - make sure you do! In my final interview, I was talking about my DJing! I think it helps to show you are a rounded individual.