Member Article

CAREER CHANGE FOR KATIE SCORES TOP MARKS

Katie Aylward gave up work at an afterschool club to take up her studies and become a sales advisor for Persimmon Homes East Midlands. Now, just weeks after completing her training, Katie, 41, is responsible for negotiating sales at the leading builder’s development in Kirton, called The Windmills. She said: “There was some uncertainty about my last job, and one of the mums suggested I get in touch with Persimmon Homes and ask about the opportunities to train as a sales advisor. “I wasn’t daunted at the thought of re-training and learning, though I did have to concentrate on studying the financial aspects, and I was qualified within five months. “I began at The Windmills when I was training and when my colleague left I took over the reins and have been running the sales office on my own. I thoroughly enjoy my job and it is rewarding taking people through the process of buying a home. I always have great job satisfaction when I get to hand over the keys to a customer. “I enjoy meeting people and helping them through the process as well as helping problem solve, sometimes I feel like a counsellor. Purchasing a home is very personal and the relationship with the customer can become a friendship. “I have never done anything like this before but I have had excellent support from my field sales managers all the way through.” Persimmon Homes East Midlands, which has its headquarters at Peterborough Business Park, is looking for experienced sales people to join the team. The housebuilder is also looking for trainees. Persimmon already employees around 100 people within its regional East Midlands business. With developments in Peterborough, Kirton, Waterbeach and Stewartby, the PLC housebuilder is looking to bring in fresh faces to help the continued success of the business. Nova Eames, sales director at Permission Homes East Midlands, said: “We’re delighted to announce that we are currently recruiting for experienced, quality sales advisers. “The business continues to grow and we have a big year ahead of us. With the new developments in the pipeline, we’re pleased to be able to bring new jobs to the area. “Sadly, a number of high street names have collapsed, and others have announced they are struggling, but I want the staff affected by this to know there are opportunities for the right people here. “Persimmon has a well-established training programme for people new to the and we are always looking to bring the brightest talent into the business. There are great career opportunities within the company. “I’m looking for is sales people with people skills and a strong, positive attitude. We want to bring the best people in to help our customers find their dream homes.” Information on the jobs currently available can be found at www.persimmonjobs.com

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sarah Dutton .