A Wessex-based sales advisor has launched a new career as a quantity surveyor with Persimmon Homes.
Mabel Jones is the third generation of her family to work for the company, starting as a sales advisor for the Malmesbury-based business.
As the pandemic drew to a close, Mabel assisted the local surveying team during an extremely busy period, and thoroughly enjoyed the challenge.
Mabel then set herself the goal of becoming a fully qualified quantity surveyor, and is retraining with full support from Persimmon.
Following in the footsteps of her nan and mother, Mabel Jones joined the Persimmon family in 2019 as a sales advisor.
Describing her journey in the construction industry, Mabel said:
“Construction drives the economy creating new jobs and homes, and it’s always appealed to me.
“My family has had a long and positive relationship with Persimmon, and my nan, Maddie Jones, started working for the company in 2001 after it acquired Beazer Homes.
“She thoroughly enjoyed working here until retirement, and my mum now works as a sales advisor for the company, and they both encouraged me to pursue a career in the industry.
“I liked working in sales, but once I helped the surveying team during a challenging period, I knew that’s where I wanted to be.”
As part of Mabel’s new role she will be studying for a HNC Construction and Built Environment (Civil Engineering) at Chippenham College, paid for by Persimmon.
Having launched their Target 50 initiative this year, Persimmon aim to recruit 50 women into construction related roles, either through and apprenticeship or as a trainee.
The initiative is reflective of Persimmon’s aim to diversify the workforce with talented, driven and motivated individuals who can be trained and developed to build successful careers with the company.
Commenting, Wessex managing director, Julian Roper, said:
“We are delighted to be able to support Mabel in achieving her goal of becoming a quantity surveyor.
“Successful companies reflect the customers and communities they serve and embrace new ideas and ways of working.
“That’s why we want to attract, retain and develop the best talent from as wide a pool as possible – providing an environment that encourages innovation and creativity to meet the big challenges society faces, such as harnessing new technologies to build more sustainable communities and achieve net zero.
“Mabel’s infectious commitment, passion and work ethic are exactly what we look for in our business, and I’m excited for Mabel’s future with Persimmon as a fully qualified QS.”
When asked the advice she would give to other women considering a career in construction, Mabel added:
“Never underestimate yourself, there are fantastic opportunities in the industry, and so many different routes to consider.
“I’m extremely grateful for the support I have received from Persimmon, and access to all the training I could possibly think of, and amazing opportunities to progress within the business.
“It’s a great industry with great people – back yourself and just do it!”
