National Graduate Week: Meet some of our 2024 Graduate Property Managers

At Rendall & Rittner, we are committed to investing in our people and helping them to grow personally and professionally throughout their career. For recent university leavers looking to kickstart a career in property management, our two-year graduate programme blends on-the-job learning with an in-depth training programme leading to TPI (formerly IRPM) qualification.

Ahead of National Graduate Week, we have spoken to some of our 2024 graduate intake to see how they have found their first couple of months on the Graduate Property Manager programme. Having recently started in September, Michael Bucknor, Danielle Okuwobi and Nancy Evans, sharing their experiences with us:

 

What did you study at university and how did this influence your decision to go into property management? 

Nancy: I have recently completed my studies in MSc Business Management. Although my degree did not directly relate to property management, during my time at university I developed an interest in the property industry as a whole, which then influenced me to go into property management. My degree aided this by giving me in-depth insight into what different components of a business do, and how this can be implemented successfully in real-life situations.

Danielle: I studied Property Finance and Investment at Nottingham Trent University, and this had a significant influence on my decision to pursue a career in property management. One of the modules I particularly enjoyed and excelled in was property management, which sparked my interest in the field. What drew me to property management was the crucial role property managers play in maintaining real estate assets while ensuring a positive experience for residents. The combination of financial oversight, strategic planning, and hands-on involvement in property operations resonated with me.

 

What appealed to you about a career in property management?

Michael: Property management covers a range of responsibilities, which in my opinion keeps the job very engaging and interesting. There’s something different to do all the time so it’s never monotonous. The property management field also offers a range of pathways for career development and I like the fact I have the opportunity to work with some great people.

Nancy: The variety of the role of a property manager appealed to me, for example, developing relationships with multiple internal and external stakeholders, problem solving, and assessing the financials of a development.

 

Why did you apply for the Rendall & Rittner Graduate scheme?

Michael: Mainly because I saw that Rendall & Rittner is one of the most respected property managing agents in the UK and that it is keen to invest in its people. On top of this, I liked the fact that by the end of my two years I will also have completed a TPI qualification which will provide me with a lot of knowledge and skills.

Danielle: What initially attracted me to the Rendall & Rittner Graduate Scheme was the company’s outstanding reputation for property management across the UK, combined with its strong emphasis on professional development. Through my research, I discovered that Rendall & Rittner is an award-winning firm with excellent reviews from both clients and employees, reinforcing my belief that this is a company I would be proud to work for. I also appreciate that this graduate scheme offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in managing prestigious residential developments, while collaborating with industry experts. I am particularly drawn to the Level 4 Property Management qualification provided by Rendall & Rittner, as it perfectly complements my ambition to build a solid foundation in property management and advance within a leading firm.

 

What was your induction like?

Nancy: The induction was an enjoyable process that consisted of a combination of e-learning and hands-on experience, for example, system training and practical site visits. We were also introduced to the graduate scheme structure, outlining the learning and development opportunities over the course of the programme.

Danielle: My induction at Rendall & Rittner was both comprehensive and well-structured. It included formal training sessions that introduced me to key processes and systems, providing a solid foundation for the role. What particularly stood out was the strong support from my colleagues, who were always available to offer guidance. I also gained valuable hands-on experience through site visits and shadowing senior property managers, which helped me better understand the practical aspects of the job.

 

What type of training is involved in the graduate scheme as you move forward?

Michael: Because it’s a graduate scheme, I am also undertaking a Level 4 Apprenticeship Qualification in Housing and Property Management which is an in-depth programme allowing me to learn and develop my knowledge of the property sector. Rendall & Rittner also has its own training programme which is very informative and up to date.

Nancy: Training consists of TPI modules and 1-to-1 sessions, alongside on-the-job training. On-the-job training accounts for a large proportion of the graduate scheme, which includes any information or knowledge that has been learnt outside of the graduate scheme. For example, new legislation or company specific training etc. This acts as preparation for the end-point assessment, which is the final piece of work for the graduate scheme.

 

What are you most looking forward to about being a Graduate Property Manager?

Michael: I’m looking forward to gaining a deeper insight into residential property management and understanding a lot more about property management as a whole. I’m looking forward to the different challenges that I’ll come across and meeting new people along the way.

Danielle: I’m most looking forward to applying my academic knowledge in a real-world setting while gaining valuable hands-on experience. The variety in the role excites me, from managing daily operations and client and resident relations, to taking on financial tasks like budgeting and forecasting. So far, I’ve really enjoyed the direct interaction with residents and being in a position where I can actively resolve the issues they bring to me. Working alongside experienced professionals has provided valuable insights, and I’m eager to continue learning and building my skills.