Matthew Whale

What attracted you to Countryside Properties?
Information had come through to my sixth form college regarding the Undergraduate Work Experience Programme which appealed, perhaps due to the chance to earn some money and get some relevant work experience and after a chance meeting with our CEO in a restaurant, at which I was working at the time, it only seemed prudent to pursue the degree choice I had put on my UCAS form relating to the property industry. Four years have now elapsed and I am still laughing at how everything fell into place at that rather confusing time.

How would you describe Countryside Properties as an employer?
Supportive and fair. We are given many opportunities as graduates and given significant exposure to key members of the management team who, if they see your potential, make sure you are aware of your value by investing in you.

Name five things you have done whilst on your work placements?
1. Negotiated the sale of a ransom strip which was restricting development.
2. Liaised with our agents to ensure the successful negotiation for a site held under option following a successful planning application.
3. Attended many corporate hospitality events to increase my network of contacts - essential for a career in land buying.
4. Assisted in the creation of the latest ESE brochure whilst on placement in our research and development team. 
5. Ensured the successful handover of a block of flats to its managing agent, which involved the sale of the freehold, during my placement with the Development Team.

What do you aspire to?
In the short term I am looking to quickly become a successful Land Buyer within my chosen subsidiary and generate a good number of new business opportunities for the company.
In the long term I would hope that, should I prove valuable, I am rewarded by a series of quick promotions. Every graduate should have high aspirations.