Will Holden Q&A – RICS Matrics Surveyor Awards 2023 Finalist.
As our Q&As continue with the Residential Property finalists for the RICS Matrics Surveyor Awards 2023, we caught up with Will Holden (MRICS), Senior Chartered Surveyor, Building Engineer and Registered Valuer at Holdens Chartered Surveyors and Building Consultancy. A career in property was on the cards for Will from an early age, with family members serving as his inspiration. Read on for Will’s story and keep an eye out for more case studies from other finalists over the coming weeks. The RICS Matrics Surveyor Awards ceremony will take place on Friday 20th October at The Londoner, Leicester Square.
What was your background before becoming a surveyor?
I went in straight from university. I originally wanted to be a Town Planner, which is what I studied for my undergraduate degree, but I then went on to do my masters in Real Estate which has led me to where I am today.
What made you consider a career in residential surveying?
My family runs a successful surveying firm, so it’s always been a part of my life. My dad and uncle are both Chartered Surveyors and my grandad was a property developer. Seeing them thrive in the property industry definitely inspired me to follow a similar path.
Which qualification route did you take and why?
I completed the university route and did 24 months of structured training, but because of my experience I was able to achieve AssocRICS for one of those years.
What has been the highlight of your surveying career so far and why?
I’ve had some fantastic opportunities in my surveying career and have always tried to make the most of them. For me, the highlight so far has got to visiting Hong Kong with my dad and some of my colleagues when he was on the Global Governing Council.
What do you love most about being a surveyor?
I love the variety in residential surveying; every day is a little different (or sometimes a lot!). It’s also nice meeting clients and vendors from all different walks of life. As a surveyor, talking to people can be a really fulfilling part of the job.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking of joining the profession?
If you’re looking to join the surveying profession, try to get a feel for it first. I would suggest getting in touch with a local firm and seeing if they can offer some shadowing or provide work experience.
If I think back to my own journey and had my time again, I would consider the degree apprenticeship route into surveying rather than the expense of university. In my experience university degrees do not prepare you well for a career in surveying. I think apprenticeships are a much better way into the profession and you get paid and trained at the same time. I do think apprenticeship candidates put themselves a few years ahead of university graduates.
How does it feel to be a finalist in the RICS Matrics Surveyor Awards 2023?
It feels great to be a finalist for the 2023 awards. All the finalists have worked so hard to be in this position so, no matter what the outcome, I look forward to celebrating with my fellow surveyors at the ceremony.
If you’re considering a career in residential surveying, find out more about Sava’s vocational Diploma in Residential Surveying and Valuation. If you’d like to meet more of the award finalists, take a look at our previous Q&A with Jason Ratcliffe, Director of Steren Surveyors.