Find out what it is really like to work for us...
Q: What were you doing before you joined Watts and how long have you been with the firm?
A: My first and most influential job before joining Watts was as a management trainee for Travis Perkins (Builders Merchant). The training I received at Travis Perkins was exceptional and gave me a thorough understanding of building materials as well as a good grounding in management techniques, both of which have been invaluable throughout my career as a building surveyor.
Before joining Watts I worked for Building Performance Group (now part of the BRE), providing asset management advice to Registered Social Landlords throughout the UK. I was also involved in the preparation and updating of the HAPM Component Life Manual, which is still a very useful guide to insured component service lives.
Q: Why did you decide to join Watts?
A: Watts has an extremely good reputation within the industry and is considered by many, including me, to be one of the best Building Surveying practices in the country.
Q: What kind of projects are you currently involved in? What has been your most interesting job to-date?
A: I have been fortunate enough to work on some very prestigious historic buildings whilst at Watts. Perhaps the most interesting is a project I am currently involved with at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. I am lead project manager for the repair and restoration of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Main Building, which is a grade 1 listed building in the heart of Westminster. It’s a real pleasure being face-to-face with 150-year-old statues carved by master craftsmen and working with the country’s leading experts in stone masonry.
Q: How has your career progressed since joining Watts? Where do you see it going?
A: I joined Watts in 2003 and at that time was still working towards becoming a chartered building surveyor. I became chartered in 2004, was made an Associate in 2005 and achieved Directorship in 2007. So I guess it would be fair to say that I have had a rapid career progression with Watts.
Q: How would you describe Watts as a company?
A: Watts is a very professional organisation with an excellent commercial outlook and a strong commitment to training and long life learning.
Q: How would you describe the social side of your team?
A: I currently head up the graduate training programme in the London office. At present we have 23 graduates at various levels and arrange frequent events throughout the year. It is safe to say that the London office has an active social life which underlines the “work hard / play hard” attitude of the company.
Q: Do you have any advice for people wanting to join Watts?
A: At Watts, we recognise the value of motivated, loyal and professional staff and understand that staff development and growth is key to the success of the business. We have developed a whole-career training structure, which sets us apart from our competitors and provides individuals with personal development opportunities throughout their career.
Watts have a network of offices throughout the UK and we are rapidly expanding into Europe. Therefore, numerous opportunities are available to enthusiastic and committed individuals.