Case studies : Development manager: Steven

Steven's current role involves identifying and developing opportunities to increase the stock of affordable housing for the association, both for rent and shared ownership, and looking at ways in which the existing stock can be remodelled or redeveloped.

Steven has recently joined a housing association trust as a development manager. Prior to this, he worked in a similar role within an urban housing association.

His time is divided between office-based and site-based work. Each day brings different challenges and tasks but typically involves visiting sites; carrying out research into the specifics of the site and locality; briefing architects and other consultants; dealing with planning officers and parish/local councils; securing grant funding and finance to enable the development to take place; and overseeing the construction process through meetings with project teams both on site and in the office environment.

Steven secured his new role by firstly succeeding in a first round interview and practical exercise. He then went on to a second interview, which was more informal. He believes that his previous experience within the housing association sector certainly helped a great deal ‘as the employer was specifically looking for someone with experience, who could pick up the role quickly as they embarked on a programme of new development’. He also explains that, ‘I think the range of projects I had been involved in and my experience of finding solutions in challenging market conditions probably counted highly and I also had the advantage of local knowledge/contacts so could make a fairly immediate impact.'

Although only in the post for a few months, Steven is enjoying his new appointment. ‘I like the diversity of the work in this particular role - both rural and urban. The role offers the chance to be innovative and creative, and it comes with quite a high degree of autonomy. However, that is perhaps something related to the culture of the organisation rather than something that is typical of the role. In terms of development surveying generally, I suppose I like the fact that I am creating something that will have a lasting impact, both on housing need and (hopefully) architecturally. If I had to choose an aspect of the job I dislike, it would be occasional overbearing regulation. Don’t get me wrong, regulation is inevitable, right and proper for organisations who receive public funding, but it’s the element I like the least.’

Steven loves his job and is very positive about his particular area of specialism. ‘The housing association sector is a pseudo public/private industry so can offer opportunities to people from varying backgrounds with different degrees of experience. It provides a secure and rewarding opportunity for those who don’t want the cut-throat world of private sector development in order to really make a difference.’

Steven has also received plenty of training and development. ‘I have had lots of opportunity to keep abreast of changes in the industry through seminars and conferences on such things as contract law, site health and safety, climate change/environmental policy, challenges of financing developments, etc.’

His advice to anyone interested in pursuing a career as a planning and development surveyor is ‘to be imaginative, enthusiastic, to have a passion for doing something worthwhile, not just for the sake of it. Also be prepared to build up contacts and engage in partnership, working both at a corporate and individual level.’