Name: Isabelle Young
Title: Cost manager at Colliers
What I do: I’m nearing the completion of my Level 6 apprenticeship at Colliers and have recently graduated from the University College of Estate Management. I’m currently working on my RICS APC. My role involves a wide range of construction projects, including offices, PBSA, retail and industrial. My responsibilities include cost estimating and control, procurement and tendering, risk management and client communication.
Why I got into the property industry: Like many, I wasn’t sure of my career path early on. During a school assembly, I was introduced to various roles in the construction industry, and the mix of site visits and office-based work caught my attention. The variety each day offered seemed like the perfect fit and I was eager to explore the opportunities available.
How I did it: Immediately after the school presentation, I reached out to the company to inquire about work experience. I also secured placements at two other companies across different sectors of the industry. This hands-on experience led me to apply for apprenticeships, and I began a Level 3 apprenticeship right after school, followed by a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
My first proper job: My first role was at an international consultancy firm based in Bristol, where I gained valuable insights into the property sector.
My first big break: After two years and achieving my Level 3 qualification, I made a move to a smaller consultancy firm in Bristol. This role involved working closely with an experienced QS in a small team, allowing me to accelerate my learning and develop skills across a variety of projects.
My inspiration(s): I draw inspiration from many sources. My mum, who studied for her master’s degree while I was a toddler, taught me the value of hard work and continuous learning. In a professional setting, I’m surrounded by highly knowledgeable colleagues at Colliers who inspire me to push myself further. Ultimately, my biggest motivator is the potential of what I could achieve by continuing to learn and grow.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date has been balancing my professional and academic workloads. At times, work and university deadlines have coincided, making it difficult to manage both effectively. However, through careful prioritisation and time management, I have developed the discipline to stay on top of my responsibilities. As a result, I can now efficiently plan my workload to ensure all deadlines are met without compromising quality.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: I am incredibly proud to have received the Chartered Surveying Apprenticeship Award 2025 from the Chartered Surveying Company.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: A common misconception is that the property industry is solely transactional, focusing just on financial aspects. While that’s important, I’ve learned that the industry is much more relationship-driven. Successful professionals in the industry need strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills to create lasting value and positive impact.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: There’s still a prevalent ‘family business’ culture in the property industry and it’s rare to be the first in the family to pursue this career. This is partly due to a lack of awareness of the various roles available. To change this, I actively engage with schools and universities to share my experiences and raise awareness of the diverse career opportunities in the industry.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: I’m passionate about DE&I because I firmly believe in fairness and the value of diverse perspectives. Having seen first hand how different experiences lead to a wider range of skillsets, I know that a diverse team is essential for creativity and innovation – qualities that are especially important in the construction industry.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: I believe individuals and businesses have a responsibility to create positive, sustainable impacts on society and the environment. I’m motivated by the idea of aligning profit with purpose, and I want to contribute to initiatives that promote long-term positive environmental and social change.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: In five years, I aim to be an associate cost manager with a well-established reputation within the market. I’m passionate about developing the wider cost management team and creating opportunities for new talent, especially women, to thrive. I want to lead by example and contribute to breaking down historic barriers to entry in the industry.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: I’d invite Michael McIntyre because he would bring laughter to the evening. I admire his dedication and perseverance in mastering his craft and achieving success.
What I do in my downtime: Outside of work, I stay active and enjoy spending time with friends and family. I’m always on the lookout for a good bakery and Saturday brunch is a tradition!
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: I truly enjoy my work in the property industry, so it’s hard to imagine doing anything else. However, I’m passionate about volunteering with Girlguiding UK, running a Brownie pack, so I’d likely pursue something related to supporting children in disadvantaged communities.
My advice for someone just starting out: Ask questions, listen carefully, and don’t shy away from stepping outside your comfort zone. People want to see you succeed, but it’s up to you to put in the effort and make the most of the opportunities available.
My motto/mantra: The only worthwhile comparison is you yesterday versus you today!
The 10-14 February 2025 is National Apprenticeship Week. Click here to find out more details about the initiative.
