Spotlight on: Ellie Cole – a successful first year as an apprentice surveyor at KWB

A year into her apprenticeship with KWB’s Industrial team, Ellie Cole has already experienced the variety that makes property such a rewarding sector: fast-moving instructions, longer-burn deals, time on site and the behind-the-scenes detail that keeps transactions on track.

From viewings and measurements to comparable research and marketing support, Ellie’s first 12 months as a KWB Industrial apprentice has been a steep learning curve – and an enjoyable confirmation that she’s on the right path.

If she had to sum up her first year in three words, Ellie doesn’t hesitate: “Challenging, exciting and positive.”

“It has been a lot to learn in such a short space of time,” she says, but the pace has helped her develop quickly. No two days are the same, and being able to get involved in a wide range of work has reinforced her ambition to build a career in commercial property.

One of the biggest surprises has been just how variable the timelines can be on industrial deals. Some progress rapidly, while others take longer to reach completion – and Ellie has gained a new appreciation for the amount of coordination and problem-solving that happens in the background to keep everything moving. She’s also been struck by the complexity of leases. “They’re far more detailed and in-depth than I expected,” she says, “and the finer points can have a big impact for both landlords and tenants.”

Ellie’s favourite part of the role? Getting out of the office. She particularly enjoys viewings, where she can see different types of industrial space and apply what she’s learning in a practical setting. Highlights so far include being involved in instructions such as Prime Park, Birmingham and Indurent Park Holbrook in Coventry. The experience has given her exposure to marketing, engaging with different occupiers and sitting in on client meetings.

Day to day, as a KWB Industrial apprentice, Ellie supports the team with a mix of tasks including assisting with viewings and measuring warehouses, undertaking comparable research, and assisting head of industrial Kenny Allan with marketing information and general deal support. It’s this breadth, she says, that has made the year both demanding and enjoyable.

When asked what she’s most proud of, Ellie points first to her personal development. Over the past 12 months being a KWB Industrial apprentice, her confidence has grown significantly and her day-to-day work has helped her feel like she’s “properly contributing.” A standout milestone was completing on her first letting under supervision – a big moment that brought together everything she’s been learning.

In terms of skills, Ellie says her attention to detail has improved the most, especially when measuring space and reviewing lease information. Accuracy, she’s learned, is fundamental. The steepest learning curve has been understanding leases and the more technical aspects of transactions, but working closely with Kenny, seeing processes play out in real situations and being able to ask questions as she goes has helped her build confidence quickly.

What does Ellie enjoy most about KWB? The team culture. “Everyone is approachable and willing to help,” she says, describing KWB as a supportive place to start her career – with genuine opportunities to get involved rather than simply observe.

Ellie is currently undertaking a Level 3 Surveying Technician apprenticeship, due to complete in April 2027. She’s enjoying the balance between online study and learning on the job, and she’s already looking ahead: once she finishes the course, she hopes to continue progressing towards becoming fully qualified.

Kenny added: “It has been fantastic to welcome Ellie to KWB. Watching her progression over the past year has been a real source of pride for the team. Entering the world of commercial property as an apprentice is no small step – it’s a complex and fast-paced environment and yet Ellie has embraced the challenge and performed exceptionally well.

“It can be daunting at first, but through a combination of structured learning and valuable on-the-job experience, she has grown in confidence and capability, becoming an integral part of the team. Supporting and developing ambitious young professionals like Ellie is vital to the future of our sector, and we are committed to providing the opportunities, guidance and encouragement needed to help the next generation thrive.”

For more information on KWB Industrial services, please contact Kenny by emailing kallan@kwboffice.com.

Kenny Allan

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Email kallan@kwboffice.com

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