Rebecca Utuka
Click here to meet Rebecca (Video)
I completed a Masters Degree in Real Estate Development and Investment in 2007, at the University of Greenwich. I was employed by Basildon District Council for a year on ‘Students Placement’ with The Service Improvement Team.
I was very interested in property management and development. To help me gain more knowledge in this field, I was invited to accompany the Principal Development officer in Basildon Council to a meeting at Swan Housing Association. This was how I got to know Swan developed and managed residential properties. The agenda for the meeting was, developing a design brief for an Eco residential accommodation in Basildon.
When I arrived, my job ‘Project Management Trainee’ was advertised on the projector screen (Swan’s website). So, I applied and fortunately was employed. I started work with Swan once I had completed my placement role with Basildon.
Swan has applied for an extended work permit on my behalf. This will give me the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the United Kingdom for the next five years. I have received great support throughout the application process. This demonstrates that Swan chooses its employees based on their ability and fulfils its legal obligations to ensure that non Uk residents obtain a legal right to work.
Although I completed my Masters Degree before joining Swan, there is ample opportunity for me to attend further training courses, and secondments. I also receive support from managers and colleagues to help develop my carrier.
Since joining Swan, I have been fully involved in my team’s projects. The level of exposure and responsibilities given to graduates are challenging and exciting.
Some of the projects I have been involved in are:
The Forest Gate Private Finance Initiative (PFI) - Swan has been named the preferred bidder for a contract with the London Borough of Newham, to refurbish a 1000 plus homes to the Governments ‘Decent Homes Standard. Swan will also manage the properties for the next 20 years.
I have contributed to the development of a ‘Design Brief’ for the Angel Way Regeneration. This is a prime site identified by the London Borough of Havering for regeneration in Romford. This project will involve the development of a 1000 plus residential accommodation and commercial facilities.
If you are interested in working for an employer that is focused on being the best in what it does, focused on staff development and offers graduates the opportunity to gain valuable hands on project management experience then Swan is the place to be!