Tara Beck, a member of the Workman Graduate Scheme since 2021, is a Property Management Surveyor with responsibility for retail, warehouse & leisure, for clients including Summer Estates, Derwent and Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS).

What three words describe Workman?

Boundless, rewarding, social.

How are you putting your skills to their best use at Workman?

As a graduate, it’s good for me to assist in different ways as it improves my development and knowledge within the property sector and Workman as a company. I’ve recently taken over the management of the retail side of the Summer Estates portfolio and it is encouraging to see the sites are presenting well and the tenants are trading well.

Tell us about your role, and why this is important to the firm and its clients?

My day-to-day role consists of ensuring the retail parks I manage are running smoothly in terms of presentation and tenant satisfaction. Producing service charge budgets and reconciliations is probably the most important aspect, as this ensures any works or improvements can be actioned on the sites. I really enjoy going on site and visiting the retail parks, as this gives me a sense of clarity on what needs to be actioned next and when; as well as seeing the tenants trading well.

How do you hope to develop your role in the coming months and years?

I am due to finish my Master’s degree in Real Estate imminently, and I am then starting my APC training in October to become chartered. I’m really excited for this – while anticipating how much little spare time I’m going to have! However, I know this will help develop my skills and knowledge for my future at Workman.

What has been your standout moment at Workman so far?

I’m looking into the future – it is definitely going to be when I graduate from my Masters degree and pass my APC!

What change would you make to the wider property sector? And why?

A change in terms of sustainability, it would be good to implement more Net Zero goals and ESG targets within commercial real estate, to help more properties become sustainable assets, which would also help change and improve the reputation of the real estate sector.

What first led you into the property industry?

I studied Journalism at University, and it took me around 2 years of that degree for me to realise Journalism is not what I wanted to do. I then remember having a serious chat with my Dad, who said ‘what industry isn’t going anywhere? Property!’.

I then worked as a Property Manager at an Estate Agent prior to Workman, which allowed me the insight to understand that I wanted to move from residential property to commercial property – I then landed this wonderful job.

What are your spare time pursuits and how do they feed into your role at Workman?

I’m a bubbly character inside and outside of work, which really helps with my confidence, particularly when participating in meetings and greeting clients. It has also help me gain a bunch of great friends from the Manchester Office.

What is your favourite building worldwide, and why?

St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, I visited a few years ago and the architecture of the building inside and out was mesmerising. I would definitely like to get married in it – one day!

What three dinner party guests would you choose and why?

Jennifer Aniston – An excellent actress and advocate for women; I think we’d be the best of friends.

Steve Carell – In the character of Michael Scott from The US Office, as he is hilarious.

Pitbull – My favourite singer who can perform at the dinner.