Having started at Workman in 2021 via the firm’s renowned Graduate Scheme, Jeremy was recently promoted to the role of Associate, with responsibility for the day-to-day management of property on behalf of clients including Columbia Threadneedle Investments.
What three words describe Workman?
Teamwork, opportunity, variety.
Having joined Workman as part of its renowned Graduate Scheme why do you think this approach is important for the industry as a whole, and why would you recommend it to others?
The graduate scheme is important as it helps provide the technical knowledge and support alongside the day job and the combination of the two, while challenging, is an excellent way to learn and then to apply what you learn.
In addition, having colleagues going through the same process provides support.
Finally, as the graduate scheme is not over-subscribed, you feel part of a team of graduates rather than a number, which allows you to build working relationships with colleagues.
How are you putting your skills to their best use at Workman?
I manage a site comprising 47 units where I have been involved in a multi-million-pound project to redevelop two units, circa 100,000 sq. ft.
This site benefits from large green space and I have introduced Activate, the Workman placemaking and destination marketing team, who have been instructed by the client to improve health and wellbeing across the estate for occupiers.
Tell us about your role, and why this is important to the firm and its clients?
Essentially my role is the day-to-day management of property on behalf of the landlord. I deal with tenant queries, complete property inspections, liaise with agents, solicitors, and other stakeholders, assist clients in the acquisition and disposal of properties, ensure health and safety compliance, prepare and present monthly reports, identify asset management opportunities such as lease re-gears.
It is important for clients that their properties are managed properly as property can be a high-risk investment.
You’ve recently been promoted to Associate; how do you hope to further develop your role in the coming months and years?
I hope to get involved in projects aiming to improve the environmental credentials of properties. Workman also manages Manchester Airport, so I would be keen to be involved in the management of this site.
What has been your standout moment at Workman so far?
Passing my APC was my standout moment. This was because there was a lot of work involved in the submission and revision. Due to working alongside, I had not revised for a number of years so getting back into the swing of it was difficult to begin with. However, passing my APC has allowed me to progress and has given me more confidence when advising clients.
What first led you into the property industry?
I studied Geography at university, where I found Human Geography and Town Planning very interesting. This then led into work experience with developers and investors (Igloo Regeneration Fund and CBRE GI) and that led to me going back to university to study Real Estate.
What are your spare time pursuits and how do they feed into your role at Workman?
Out of work I like to be active most days. I will either go to the gym, play badminton, football, or go for a run. I would say this helps refresh and re-energise my mind. I also enjoy listening to music and when I can, going to see live music as much as possible.
What is your favourite building worldwide, and why?
Old Trafford (Manchester United’s football stadium). It is getting a bit old now, but I have some of my favourite memories with my dad there, so it will always be a special place to me.
What three dinner party guests would you choose and why?
My three dinner party guests would have to be Sir Alex Ferguson, Michael Jordan, and Kevin Bridges.
Sir Alex Ferguson because he would bring some excellent wine and would have lots of amazing stories about my favourite football club.
Michael Jordan because I think he is the most influential sportsperson.
Kevin Bridges because he would bring the comedy.