Justin Trott, Strutt & Parker

Justin Trott is a graduate development surveyor specialising in residential property at Strutt & Parker and is based in their Exeter office. He studied a degree in land management at the University of Reading.

Why did you want a graduate job as a property developer?

I grew up in property – as a farmer’s son in Somerset, I was aware of the buying and selling of land that went on. The development and evolution of property has always interested me: watching the process from the acquisition of a site and gaining planning permission through to development of the property and finally disposal, is what I enjoy. So I was looking for a career involving property development and thought that working in the residential sector would provide good prospects, wherever in the country I chose to work.

What is it like working as a graduate surveyor outside of London?

I particularly wanted a job in the south west so working in the Exeter office is fantastic. I did consider getting a job in London but I like the country environment and being close to my family and friends. Working here you can learn the same skills but for me I find it’s a better lifestyle.

What do you like about your job?

I enjoy the diversity of the work, and the fact that I’m not confined to the office. One day I may be inspecting a site in Cornwall for the potential development of 150 dwellings; on another I may be ringing landowners who have just put in planning applications to find out their intentions for their site and whether we can help them. I also enjoy the fact that the work is very hands on. A lot of time is spent out and about on sites, meeting people – this is a very sociable industry.