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Graduate case studies

Graduate case studies
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Richard - 
Head of Economic Planning

Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

About the job

Main responsibilities

Leading a national team of economic planning and development professionals.

Advising clients on economic planning matters for larger scale developments as well as strategic planning matters.

Typical day

A typical day can involve working from my office,one of Turley Associates other offices around the UK or directly with a client. Typically I am working in multi-disciplinary teams involving town planners and urban designers (among others) as well as directing the resources of my own team. My role demands that my time is split between project related activities, management duties, promotional work and networking.

What do I enjoy about my job?

No two places are identical, so my job involves a constant process of learning about places, their economies, property markets and the role that planning policy and development can exert on them. This is intellectually rewarding work!

Challenging aspects

Manging time and resources is an essential part of the job.

Why did this area of work appeal to me?

The opportunity to understand how different places work, the factors that shape them and the contribution that individual developments play is something that has always appealed to me.

Skills/qualifications I use in my job?

Data analysis
Spatial analysis
Housing market analysis
Development viability

Training I receive as part of my job

A comprehensive programme of training is offered associated with being a competent plannning professional. CPD is positively encouraged and supported. Regular "teach in" sessions are held within each of our offices to share emerging policy and best practice.


Career information

Brief history since leaving University

Graduate Planner to Associate, GVA Grimley (2001-2006)

Partner and Director, GVA Grimley (2007-2013)

Where do I see myself in the future?

Leading a growing team of economic plannning professionals and helping clients to understand the impact of their plans, developments and investments.


Advice to students

My piece of advice to students

Candidates that have "real world" planning experience through work experience, and who are able to apply lessons from this experience in interviews tend to stand out. Demonstrating good writing skills and numeracy are also key to successful candidates.


Last updated: 17 Jul 2013