Joanna Sztejer

About my job

What does your department do?

I previously worked for our Strategic Projects team, who were responsible for sourcing the more complex, large scale schemes, promoting them through the planning system and delivering the associated infrastructure.

The London team are responsible for sourcing potential new development sites in and around the London Boroughs. Depending on the nature of the site, and whether it is purchased with or without planning permission, we are then involved with a range of planning and design matters as well as commercial and housing association (HA) deals.

What do you do on a day-to-day basis?

On a day to day basis I appraise new potential sites in terms of viability and planning, negotiate deals for new residential development or commercial leases and manage the planning application and design process on a selection of sites.

What do you like about what you do?

The job presents new challenges each and every day, and offers a real sense of achievement when we reap the benefits of our hard work. There is a great variety to the type of work on do on a daily, weekly and monthly basis.

Why did you choose this career?

I always had a passion for Geography and the built environment at school. This resulted in pursuing a degree in Urban Studies and Planning which lead onto my career path today.

What qualifications did you need to get this job?

I gained an BSC(hons) and MPLAN Masters in Urban Studies and Planning from the University of Sheffield. When I applied for the role at Crest Strategic Projects, the team were looking for a new graduate from a planning background, so my qualifications met the requirements.

Is there any particular advice you would give to someone looking for a career in your area of work?

Be open minded to which sector of the industry to work in – I always envisaged I would work in planning consultancy but have absolutely no regrets that I pursued a role with a Developer and can’t imagine working in a different part of the sector now.

Working in the Land and Development team requires an understanding of all aspects of the housebuilding business. I would therefore recommend accepting any opportunity to gain experience in other departments such as build, technical, commercial, production, sales and marketing or customer service.

Questions & Answers

What hobbies or interests do you have?

I enjoy triathlons, open water swimming and cycling.

What’s your favourite type of music?

Whatever is on the radio

What’s your favourite film / film genre?

RomCom

Where’s your favourite place to go on holiday?

I don’t like going back to the same place twice as I love to travel, but Australia is my favourite place to date.