Faces behind the build - Jenna Hobbs
People
25 Nov 2024
At Avant, it's our mission to make it possible for the next generation of house buyers to get on the housing ladder by opening the door to well built, affordable homes, in fantastic locations!
Our team put our customers at the heart of everything they do, so to find out more about the 'Faces behind the build', we've been speaking to members of our team to find out more about who they are, what they do and what they enjoy most about their job.
This month, we caught up with North Yorkshire's Land Manager, Jenna Hobbs!
1. What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day for me would include looking for new land opportunities, which involves speaking to agents and staying updated on potential sites. When there is a new land opportunity, I will conduct a site walkover to view the land and surrounding area. I also prepare bids for the sites, this involves working with the other departments to evaluate the site and produce the appraisal. In addition to this, I am also involved in the sale of the affordable housing units. This requires regular communication with registered providers and solicitors to negotiate and agree on contracts for the development and sale of the homes.
2. What do you enjoy the most about your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is the opportunity to be involved in projects right from the very start. Being part of the initial stages allows me to shape the direction of each project, from identifying potential land opportunities to laying the groundwork for successful development. This early involvement gives me a deep sense of ownership and satisfaction, as I see each project evolve from concept to reality.
3. How did you get into this role?
I have always been interested in working in the construction industry. When I was at school, I was awarded an Arkwright Scholarship and was sponsored by CITB, which provided invaluable support and training. This early exposure fuelled my enthusiasm for the industry and set me on my career path.
I pursued my interest further by studying at the University of Sheffield. After completing my degree, I joined another housing developer as a graduate trainee, while also earning my master’s degree in real estate at UCEM in my free time. My journey then led me to Avant Homes, where I started as a Land Buyer and have since been promoted to Land Manager.
4. Why did you want to join Avant Homes?
I wanted to join Avant Homes because when I joined the North Yorkshire team, the region was newly established. It was an exciting opportunity to be part of a new region within a growing business. I was drawn to the potential for learning and growth within the team, knowing it would provide valuable experience and opportunities for career progression.
5. What would you say are skills you need to possess to be successful in your role?
To be successful in my role, I think it is important to have a combination of strong analytical skills and effective communication. Analysing potential land opportunities, assessing site constraints, and preparing bids require attention to detail and a strategic mindset. Additionally, negotiation and relationship-building skills are crucial when working with landowners, agents, and stakeholders to secure deals.
6. What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time on creative hobbies like baking and painting. I love spending quality time with friends and family. I have also recently started learning to play the guitar.
7. Tell us a fun fact about yourself that your colleagues wouldn't know about you?
When I was at university, I volunteered on a community farm project where I would help run alpaca treks.
8. If you could swap jobs for a day with any other person in the company, who would it be and why?
If I could swap jobs for a day with someone in the housebuilding industry, I would choose to be a sales advisor. In the land department, I typically deal with the beginning of the project. I think it would be interesting to see the other side of the business, helping customers choose their new homes and handing over the keys.
9. What would you say to anyone looking to get into the housebuilding sector?
If you're looking to get into the housebuilding sector, I’d suggest exploring the variety of roles available. There are many different opportunities as the industry offers positions suited to different skills and interests. Whether you’re interested in land acquisition, sales, construction, or design, there are opportunities for diverse career paths.
Lastly, developing places that people will call home can give you a fulfilling and rewarding career.
10. Describe the culture at Avant in three words
Collaborative, motivated, supportive
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