A day in the life of a graduate management trainee at Persimmon Homes

We recently caught up with Bright Network member, Monika, to chat about how her career is going. Monika has been working as a graduate management trainee at Persimmon Homes and told us about her personal experience of what a day in the life of a graduate management trainee is really like. Read on to learn what a graduate management trainee does and whether it’s the career path for you.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background

My name is Monika and I am in the second year of the Persimmon Homes Graduate Scheme. Currently, I am project managing Persimmon’s transition to a new industry code – the New Homes Quality Code. I graduated with an undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts (History) in July 2021

What is your role and how long have you been at Persimmon?

I started working for Persimmon Homes in September 2021 as a Graduate Management Trainee. In my first year, I completed rotations in all of the business functions, and loved getting hands-on experience. From identifying potential land, to discharging planning conditions and even selling houses, I gave everything a go. In addition to the standard rotations, I was seconded to the New Homes Quality Board for three months.

Currently, I’m undertaking the first of two second year rotations. For the next few months I will be working with Group Sales to project manage Persimmons transition to the New Homes Quality Code, ensuring the business is code compliant. Afterwards, I will complete a longer rotation within Commercial.

What inspired you to apply for this role at Persimmon?

The rotational nature inspired me to apply for the role. I was interested in the construction industry, but unsure which role would suit my skills the best. The fact that the role gives you the opportunity to learn about the entire business and find the role best suited to you was attractive.

What has been the single most important thing you learnt so far in your job?

I have learnt that the more you get involved in something, the more you will get out of it. By immersing yourself, you get to know what each function does, and build connections with the people working within those functions. As all of the functions are connected, even if you do not choose to work in that function, you will be working with the team. Therefore, an understanding of what they do and strong connections with those colleagues is invaluable.

What would a typical day look like for someone in your role?

In terms of where you are working, it depends on the function you are working in. Construction and Sales are site based, whereas land, technical, commercial and customer care are office based with a few days out on site.

Currently, I am office based. When I get to the office, I’ll check my emails to see if there are any tasks I need to complete or respond to queries on elements of the project. Then I’ll work on completing tasks required to progress the project. This could involve activities such as engaging with an insight group, meeting with individuals who are responsible for making the code required changes, or conducting research. At the end of each day, I update the project tracker with the progress made, and identify what needs to happen next.

In any spare time, I like to catch up with colleagues to discuss the work they are currently completing as well as keeping up to date with industry news.

What do you find most interesting about the construction sector?

The construction industry is fast paced. It's constantly evolving so there is always something new to learn about. This provides opportunities for individuals to get involved and to leave their mark even at the start of your career.

As a volume house builder, Persimmon helps to shape the communities we live in. Working within the industry has enlightened me to understand why our communities are the way they are. How you look at homes will change!

What is the culture like?

The culture at Persimmon is hard working. People are passionate about the work they do and are willing to go the extra mile. This is great for a trainee, as people are always more than happy to talk about what they do and involve you where possible.

Attitudes in the business are also changing, and there is an increasing focus on being customer oriented and improving quality. Some of the changes Persimmon has made to improve quality include investing in customer experience.

How important is diversity to you and what is Persimmon doing in this space at the moment?

I believe that businesses should champion diversity. Having a diverse workforce, where people have different backgrounds, experience and perspectives can encourage new ideas that could lead to positive changes.

Persimmon is committed to multiple schemes and initiatives to promote a diverse workforce. One of the more recent initiatives is Target 50 where Persimmon aims to recruit 50 female apprentices or trainees to construction related roles this year.

How did you find the application process?

The application process was straightforward and quick. At each stage, the Bright Network provided clear instructions of what was happening. It might sound strange, but I enjoyed many of the tasks given at each stage.

There was support available. The Bright Network hosted a webinar that provided an informative insight to Persimmon Homes and the graduate scheme. Accessibility adjustments were available for individuals who required them.

Finally, any tips for anyone who’d like to apply for a role at Persimmon?

If you’re interested in applying for a role at Persimmon, just go for it. Even if you do not have a conventional background but have passion and an interest to learn. Most of the graduates on the scheme do not have construction related degrees, so you will not be at a disadvantage. Focus on demonstrating passion, any commercial awareness you have and ask plenty of questions.

Then when you get the role, make the most of every opportunity. Even in departments you do not see yourself working in. Gain as much experience as possible and build your network. It will put you in good stead for your career.