Talking ‘Matrics’ with Adam Osborne

In a recovering market where young and talented surveyors are increasingly sought after, the need for sound career advice and professional guidance can not be understated. Foundation Recruitment caught up with Adam Osborne (Matrics Chairman for Yorkshire & Humber) to get a flavour of the good work being carried out across the region.

What does the role of matrics Chairman for Yorkshire and Humber involve?

As Chairman of RICS matrics Yorkshire & Humber I am responsible for organising and hosting professional networking events and seminars for members and trainees in the region.  I manage the input of nine committee members and liaise with the RICS to ensure the smooth running of our activities.  The role requires a surprising amount of people and task management skills.

Tell us a bit about your career to date and the work you currently do at GVA.

My career began as a placement student in the Estates Department of Rotherham Council.  After graduating from Sheffield Hallam University I joined the graduate programme of Drivers Jonas (now Deloitte Real Estate), initially working in the Strategic Consulting team and then in the Development team.  In spring 2010 I qualified as a Chartered Commercial Property Surveyor.

I joined GVA in May 2012 to provide development and regeneration advice to public and private sector clients. I specialise in development appraisals, scheme viability analysis and development agency.

How is the market shaping up for newly qualified surveyors within the Yorkshire and Humber region?

I think the prospects for newly qualified surveyors in the region are improving all of the time as property market conditions improve and optimism increases.  I think there will be greater employment opportunities as organisations look to the future.  Newly qualified surveyors form an important part of an organisation as they help to free-up the time of more senior colleagues, which in-turn allows projects to be progressed and further business opportunities to be generated.

What advice would you give to any young surveyors who are looking to secure a new role?

Be proactive.  Make sure your CV is well written and clearly demonstrates your academic qualifications and professional experience.  Think about what you can offer an organisation and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the property industry.  Prepare well for an interview and give some thought to the questions that might be asked of you – provide a concise but informative response.

Tell us about a recent event that you organised for matrics members. Were there any notable successes that came from it?

In spring and autumn each year the committee and I host our CPD (Continued Professional Development) programmes – effectively a series of seminars delivered by property professionals on technical, professional and topical property matters.  Topics range from development viability to landlord and tenant, Building Information Modelling (BIM) to the construction of buildings.  I would say that a notable success from these events stems from the fact that they form an integral part of the continued development of trainees and members.

What work does matrics do to raise the profile of the surveying profession?

RICS matrics is tasked with engaging with universities and schools with the aim of promoting the surveying profession.  In the last six months the committee and I have delivered presentations to built environment and real estate students at Leeds Metropolitan University and Sheffield Hallam University.  The committee also attends career fairs at schools in the region as representatives of the RICS.  The surveying profession is unique in its diversity and it can make for a very rewarding career.  RICS matrics has an important role to play in promoting the profession as we are in regular contact with the potential surveyors of the future.

Adam Osborne