LEICESTERSHIRE CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONAL EXCELS FROM GRADUATE TO ASSISTANT SITE MANAGER
A 24-year-old construction professional from Leicestershire has made the leap from graduate to Assistant Site Manager in quick succession after demonstrating exceptional skills in the housebuilding industry.
Jess Fletcher, who originally started as a candidate on Barratt Homes’ two-year ASPIRE Graduate Programme in August 2020, is encouraging other young women to enrol on the scheme and consider a career in construction ahead of International Women’s Day (8th of March).
Jess is one of the youngest site managers to be employed by Barratt Homes, and is responsible for helping to manage its King’s Meadow development in Melton Mowbray.
She originally undertook a degree in Architecture at Leeds Beckett University, as well as working as an Architectural Assistant for a Leeds based Royal Institute of British Architects practice prior to seeking employment by the leading housebuilder.
Her day-to-day role involves scheduling the program of works for all trades on site, monitoring health and safety regulations, and managing the production of new homes at the development.
Jess said: “The ASPIRE Graduate Programme is a great opportunity to start a career with Barratt Developments PLC, and it was possibly one of the best career decisions I have made so far.
“It allows you to learn from all departments whilst learning ‘on the job’ and is great for networking and having exposure to the business within your division and with senior leaders.”
Jess is hoping to progress even further up the career ladder, with the goal of becoming a Site Manager in the next couple of years. Her ultimate and more long-term ambition is to eventually become a Construction Director.
Jess added: “Barratt Homes has a diverse workplace and advocates time and investment into young people to become the next team of senior leaders.”
Mark Cotes, Managing Director at Barratt Homes North Midlands, said: “We are incredibly proud of Jess, who is doing a fantastic job at helping to manage the construction team at our King’s Meadow development.
“It normally takes a while for graduates to adjust to what is a very demanding and fast-paced industry before taking on a role of greater responsibility, however Jess has continually shown levels of such talent and natural ability which has enabled her to thrive in her new role.
“We are always on the lookout for fresh talent, and we’d like to encourage any young men and women who are considering a career in construction to apply for a position on the scheme.”
