Sometimes, family really does know best when it comes to job choices. Harveet Thethy (24) completed a degree in economics but knew she wanted to build a career in a field where she could learn skills from scratch, applying her knowledge to a totally different area. Working in consultancy or accountancy did not appeal, so she decided to spread her net wider.
Having several family members who were already enjoying careers in property, she started to talk to them about what these roles involved and investigate opportunities available to her, realising that the sector is packed with opportunities for progression. After her research, Harveet was particularly drawn to the real estate investment trust SEGRO, known for its development and asset management of warehousing in both urban and out-of-town locations.
The diverse responsibilities outlined in the job description for a Graduate Surveyor role at SEGRO appealed to Harveet, aligning with her career aspirations. As an organisation, SEGRO has a wide portfolio of properties under development and expansion, which also interested Harveet as they provided opportunities to get involved in a variety of projects.
From joining the organisation, Harveet has been able to use her analytical skills from her degree, alongside her economics knowledge, to learn more about the logistics industry, and has benefitted from the company’s graduate development scheme which has provided two rotations in different business areas to further her knowledge of the sector. In addition to a clear path to career progression, her role allows her volunteering opportunities which she says have allowed her to gain a comprehensive insight into the impact the company has beyond its core business, by connecting with local communities and charity partners.
“My original degree provided me with the transferrable skills and attitude which my employer was looking for.”
“Our company values drew me into the role,” she explains, “such as valuing individual employees career journeys and allowing me to explore a range of specialisms within the organisation. This is not a business where one size fits all, and the flexibility I have been given has ensured that I can truly explore my role and shape it to suit my strengths, enabling the ability to develop essential skills along the way.”
“Property is not the first career which you think of when considering working in logistics, but without the work of SEGRO and businesses like it, the industry would not be able to store and deliver all the goods our customers need. Working on a wide range of projects, including completing new lettings and renewing existing leases for existing customers has been a real career highlight for me.”
“I am also able to combine my work with continuing my education – I am currently studying for a master’s in real estate, which I am really enjoying. This has equipped me with theoretical insights, enabling me to apply this knowledge to drive current projects.”
“SEGRO as an organisation provides me with a wide range of responsibilities, as well as a structured career path which is allowing me to develop my skills and grow alongside the company. While my original degree was not in property per se, it provided me with the transferrable skills and attitude which my employer was looking for – I now have a clear career path to follow and build on.”
“Many family members suggested a career in property when I was exploring my options, and I’m truly delighted I took their advice. I’ve never been happier with my decision.”
Harveet Thethy, Graduate Surveyor at SEGRO
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