Valuation Office Plymouth Insight Event 29th November 2021
Category: Success Stories
Publish date: 05/10/2021
VOA are inviting Service leavers to attend a promotional event at our Plymouth Office. The event is booked for Friday 29th November between 09:30 - 11:30 am. There will be a 45-minute presentation on our apprenticeship schemes and graduate pathway, which both lead to membership of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (qualified chartered surveyor). This is aimed at raising awareness of our organisation and encouraging Service personnel to apply for vacancies advertised in 2022.
If you’d like to register, please book your place here.
My background?
"I left the Royal Navy as a Chief Petty Officer in 2014 having served 23 years in the Hydrographic and Meteorological Branch. I felt fortunate enough to have acquired skills that were easily transferable to the civilian workplace."
What attracted me to the surveying profession?
"I invested in several buy-to-let properties whilst serving in the military and managed them throughout the last 15 years of my former career. This is when I developed an interest in valuing residential and commercial property. I wanted to pursue a new career in the built environment and naturally gravitated toward the surveying profession."
Why did I consider the Valuation Office Agency to be good employer for me after leaving the military?
"When I decided to leave the Armed Forces, I thought carefully about what I would value most in a second career. The VOA offered me a route to a professional qualification and a high level of job-security, good opportunities for career progression and a work-life balance that would enable me to devote time to my family and other aspects of life."
Did I have any concerns or worries about moving career?
"Yes. I suffered from moments of self-doubt throughout my degree study. I even considered re-joining the military when things got difficult. I had four young children and financial commitments. However, my wife was supportive, and I had some great workplace backing throughout my post- degree structured training. Now, upon reflection, I wonder what all the stress was about. I’m so glad I had the courage to take the leap."
Any final advice for someone looking to leave the forces?
"If you’re interested in property, then consider the surveying profession. The UCEM offer excellent distance learning courses that can be studied remotely. Use your ELCs and SLCs to finance the investment in yourself. The VOA are currently recruiting, so look out for vacancies on the Civil Service Jobs website and register for alerts. Create a strong LinkedIn profile and build connections with people who are in the roles that you’re interested in. Stay focused and stay positive."