Insight Programme Intern Review

A valuable insight into the role of a property manager in the West End Shopping Centre A department with visits to Lakeside Shopping Centre and Kings Cross. Learning from graduate surveyors I read through and familiarised myself with multiple leases, being tasked with extracting the key terms from each one. I then cross checked these details against a statement of accounts, chasing outstanding arrears on behalf of the landlord.

I learnt new technical skills reading leases and extracting relevant clauses. I also developed my communication and teamwork skills discussing theses terms with my mentor. The site visit to Lakeside Shopping Centre improved my business awareness of the issues affecting out of town retail. Opportunities to meet likeminded people from graduates to directors helped improve my networking skills. I learnt how property data was impeccably organised within the company intranet (Compass).

I was working with a young and highly motivated team of graduates who were following a pathway to qualifying as Chartered Surveyors. To ensure they obtained the relevant experience they rotated to different departments every four months. I networked with graduates from many other departments including property management, valuation, planning and investment. The zoom meetings with directors also provided a valuable insight into the wider Savills business and the diverse roles available.

I learnt that Savills genuinely cares about its graduate surveyors, their training, and their career development. In my department the atmosphere was youthful which produced an energetic vibe. I felt the people took great care and pride in everything they did. They were eager to help me to get the most out of the week and to fulfil my potential. People respected each other and worked to the highest ethical standards.

I really enjoyed my week, which provided an excellent insight into how the property industry works and what is expected from a graduate surveyor at Savills. I was made to feel very welcome and enjoyed the opportunity to meet and talk with likeminded people. The week helped to build my confidence and network. I am now eager to pursue any opportunities with Savills.

Yes

I would recommend the Insight Programme without reservation. It is evident Savills took great care to match our interests with our host department. I would advice others to think carefully about what discipline of real estate they are interested in and what department they would like to join. Developing their commercial awareness before the week would be beneficial.