Early careers

Calum Sparling, Central Business Support Apprentice

I decided to pursue a full-time apprenticeship with Baily Garner after completing a work experience placement with them. During this placement, I got an insight into what working at Baily Garner is like and I had a really good time.

Though I’m still only in my first month at Baily Garner, I can already see just how much potential there is to grow here, and I feel like I have made the right choice. They have provided me with an exciting apprenticeship that allows me to explore every aspect of the business enabling me to get an insight of what a career would be like for me in each group across the operation.

Everyone here is incredibly friendly, and the positive work environment is one of the best things about working here. I’m excited to continue on this path together with the support of Baily Garner.

Jaspal Mond, Studio Lead

When I first interviewed with Baily Garner, I remember leaving the room feeling excited about the opportunity. So, I went with my gut, and I’ve been a part of the team for eight years now!

Starting out, I joined as an Architectural Technician, worked up to becoming a Project Team Leader and now I’m Studio Lead for the Birmingham Studio. As a Project Team Leader, I gained the skills and experience needed to turn projects on paper into a reality. This role placed me firmly in the driving seat of my career progression and, with Baily Garner’s support, I have continued to grow since then. It’s a huge part of the company ethos to empower employees to achieve their full potential and reward them when they do.

Supporting me through my higher education and professional qualifications they have always encouraged me to learn more, take on challenges and push myself to achieve my goals. My latest ambition is to become fully qualified within the next two years.

By far, my favourite thing about working here is the people. Baily Garner is like a family, and you can’t ask for a better workplace than that.

Marie Carpenter, Partner

My journey with Baily Garner began in April 1994. I had answered an advertisement in the local newspaper for an Audio Secretary, but with just one qualification and no experience, I wasn’t quite right for the position. However, a couple of weeks later, I received a phone call offering me a job as the Office Junior. The role would afford me the experience and opportunity I needed to grow a career, and I happily accepted.

I’m very glad I was given that chance because since then my professional journey has accelerated in leaps and bounds and I am now a Chartered Building Surveyor and Partner at Baily Garner.

Over the past 29-30 years, Baily Garner has consistently provided me with the resources, tools and training I need to grow. From sponsorship and support throughout my university career to the current day with ongoing support and dedicated mentoring, there is nothing Baily Garner won’t do to help me thrive.

Working here is an absolute pleasure because every day is different — whether it’s a new challenge to find a solution to or a new project to get stuck into, you will never get bored at Baily Garner. Top that with the friendly and supportive environment that the organisation has nurtured, and you have a recipe for success. Everyone here is committed to making a positive difference for their colleagues, the business and the wider community, and it’s truly inspiring to be a part of this team.

Rhiannon Thornton, Apprentice Building Surveyor

I got my first taste of working at Baily Garner for a week of work experience before starting my A-levels. The staff were really friendly and took the time to explain how I could become a Building Surveyor. This level of attention and support stuck with me, so when I looked into doing a degree apprenticeship with Baily Garner, I knew I had to go for the opportunity.

My first year at Baily Garner has been truly amazing, thanks to the fantastic support they offer. They always help with my questions and make sure I understand what I need to do for my job. Going to university once a week is helping me become a Chartered Surveyor, a goal I want to reach soon. I also want to inspire more women to join the construction industry.

My favourite thing about Baily Garner is the positive attitude of everyone and the variety of opportunities you can get involved with. Not only are there multiple work projects to get stuck into but there are also many charity events, such as the Three Peaks challenge we did in June.

Tim Bush, Partner

Over the course of 37 years, my career has been nothing short of incredible. It all began with my curiosity to understand what a Building Surveyor does and a 10-week summer work experience placement, where I earned £25 a week! Little did I know, this opportunity would be the foundation for a remarkable career.

My journey has always been strengthened by the unwavering support of my mentors and colleagues. They encouraged me to retake my A-level studies, pursue a part-time degree, and ultimately, achieve Chartered status as a Building Surveyor in 1993.

In 1996, I was given the opportunity to establish the Birmingham office for the practice: a momentous milestone that allowed me to showcase my leadership and managerial skills. I am now Partner, a role I’ve proudly held since 2006.

Looking forward, my aspirations are simple yet profound. I aim to retire one day, knowing that I have left a lasting legacy and that my contributions have made Baily Garner stronger and more successful than when I first joined.

For me, this company is not just a workplace; it’s home. The deep sense of belonging, the shared values, and our collective can-do attitude are what set us apart. We are driven by the belief that we can make a meaningful and positive impact on people’s lives, and that is a source of immense pride for all of us.