Meet Elizabeth, Graduate at Persimmon Homes

I joined Persimmon Homes as part of the 2024 Graduate Management Trainee intake. Based in the East Wales region, I am currently over halfway through my first rotation in Land and Planning. I graduated with an undergraduate degree in Business Management and Economics from the University of the West of England in July 2023.

At the moment, I am five weeks into my first rotation in the Land and Planning department. From day one, I’ve been fully immersed in the business. Within my first half hour, I had the opportunity to attend a two-hour bid review meeting with four directors. Over the past month and a half, I’ve attended various meetings, visited multiple sites with the team, and been involved in searching for several potential developments. This has given me a comprehensive understanding of the processes involved in buying land and applying for planning.

Once my rotation in Land and Planning concludes in a few weeks, I will move on to my second rotation in the technical department, where I will be based for eight weeks. Following that, I will continue my rotational programme in departments such as Commercial and Construction.

What I enjoy most about working at Persimmon is the variety and excitement each day brings. No two days are the same, which keeps me motivated and enthusiastic. Some days, I might be in meetings, searching for potential new sites, or conducting market research. On other days, I get the chance to visit sites or meet with external partners. I appreciate that I’m not confined to my desk all day; instead, I’m given opportunities to learn new skills and grow continuously. Additionally, everyone here is super welcoming and always willing to help wherever they can, creating a supportive and collaborative environment.

I am amazed at how quickly time has flown by; I can’t believe I’ve been with Persimmon for a month and a half and that I am already nearly finished with my first rotation. Each day seems to pass by extremely fast, and I’ve enjoyed the unique opportunities to attend various meetings with different directors and partners.

The support network within the graduate scheme has been incredible. Before starting, Persimmon paired me with a buddy who is a previous graduate. This gave me the chance to ask any questions I had before starting and to learn about the scheme from someone who has experienced it. Additionally, before beginning in my region, I was invited to Persimmon’s HQ in York for an induction week. This week allowed me to meet the other new graduates from different regions, helping us all to create a support network. During the week, we received a crash course in the world of construction and learned more about the history of Persimmon, which prepared us for the start of our graduate scheme.

Since the induction week, I have had regular calls with the graduate programme leader, my buddy, and other graduates, providing me with ample support. Everyone in the office has been extremely supportive and welcoming, and it’s clear that everyone wants you to succeed.

If you’re thinking about applying, go for it! It doesn’t matter if you don’t have a relevant degree or background experience. Most graduates in the scheme don’t have construction-related degrees, so you wouldn’t be at any disadvantage. For example, in the 2024 cohort, half of us had business-related degrees with no construction knowledge or experience.

During the application process, I recommend researching Persimmon and the construction industry, including local and national issues, and understanding how government policies impact the industry. Prepare notes and questions for the interview and assessment centre to demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Bright Network supports you every step of the way, frequently sending emails to keep you updated and hosting webinars about the scheme.