Tom Holt-Wilson, BNP Paribas Real Estate

Tom Holt-Wilson is a trainee surveyor at BNP Paribas Real Estate, currently sitting in the property management team as part of his rotational graduate scheme. He studied anthropology at Durham University, before taking a postgraduate qualification in real estate management and valuation at the University of Reading.

What does the job of a property management graduate surveyor involve?

As a graduate trainee I get experience in a number of different departments before I take my qualifying exams. Working in property management, I am involved in managing the property portfolio for a charitable investment fund, which consists of about 150 properties (retail, industrial and office) nationwide. Rent is the income stream that the industry relies on and ensuring it is collected on time is therefore one of the most important tasks for a property manager acting for the landlord.

As well as collecting rent, the job includes: inspecting properties, creating service charges, liaising with contractors and tenants and advising the landlord when tenants want to alter the property or move. Asset management is also involved, which necessitates being aware of the investment potential of a property and advising the landlord on how to maximise returns.

What do you enjoy most about working in property management?

The highlight of my job is the variety and interest created by juggling lots of different tasks and working with different people, from clients to caretakers and chief executives. Expecting to deal with the unexpected is an essential quality. My colleagues have diverse interests and this makes for a fun work environment during and after office hours.