Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with three talented surveyors in our Rating Advisory team - Dale Beckley, Jack Webber, and Ryder King - who share their unique experiences and reflections on their time at Montagu Evans so far. 

In this article, discover firsthand why joining our expanding rating advisory team could be a great next step in your career. For more information on our exciting job openings in Rating Advisory, please click here. 

DALE BECKLEY

What are the two best things about your role? 

Business rates work as a whole, allows me to be autonomous with my workload; however, at Monty’s, this autonomy is bolstered by having an abundance of knowledgeable surveyors within the team that are more than happy to help. This blend of work and support allows you to drive your workload towards areas that you would prefer to work in whilst not feeling out of your depth. There are very limited firms that create this blend of support and autonomy.

The advantage of working in the rating department is the consistently changing nature of the role. There are multiple competencies that a rating surveyor must be able to implement, including negotiation skills, people skills when dealing with clients and technical skills. This array of skills results in an ever-changing day-to-day workload which continues to keep the work exciting and allows for continued growth.

How long have you been at the firm?

I joined the firm just over a month ago as a Surveyor, and I have already felt the strong culture within the firm along with a clear progression path for my career going forward.

Why would you recommend the firm and role?

The firm goes to great lengths to provide the best environment for its employees. This environment is created through a number of methods, including an incredible office in the City of London, a range of social events each month, and mental/physical health support whilst also providing great opportunities to grow and learn within the firm. The rating department has several industry leaders resulting in a great place to expand your knowledge. In addition to this, it is one of the largest and youngest rating teams in the country.

Tell us about a recent project you have enjoyed working on.

Having only recently started at the firm, I am still reviewing my caseload. That said, I am really looking forward to perhaps getting involved with some of the Premiership football teams we act for.

What was your last work social? 

Within my short period at the firm, there has been at least one social event each week. These events enable you to socialise with people outside of work hours and allow you to get to know not only your team but the wider firm in general. The last social event I was last at was a hockey match with some drinks and food after. It’s an easy way to get to know different members of the firm and meet other surveyors during the process.

JACK WEBBER

What are the two best things about your role? 

In the Rating Advisory team, your work covers all property sectors, from Town Centre retail units to remote specialist property types such as Whiskey Distillery, giving you the opportunity to get out of the office and visit many different parts of the UK.

The department's client list boasts some of the country’s most well-known brands and companies. Providing the opportunity to work with and create strong working relationships with some of the most predominant and successful companies in the country.

How long have you been at the firm? 

I joined Montagu Evans as a Graduate in April 2021, I have since passed my APC with the help and backing of the firm, and I am currently enjoying life as a Chartered Surveyor within the team.

Why would you recommend the firm and role? 

The work/life balance and freedom that the firm gives you is what sets it apart from other large Surveying firms. In 2021 they made the big move from the West End to the City. The main reason for this was to provide its employees with a world-class working environment. Our office at 70 St Marys Axe is certainly that. It is a real privilege to come to work every day and make the most of such a luxurious workspace.

Tell us about a recent project you have enjoyed working on. 

I have recently been involved in providing advice from a rating perspective on the expansion of Amazon Fresh. I have provided them and their retail agency advisors with rates estimates throughout the country, helping them put together offers for the acquisition of new stores. Having visited many of their stores as a surveyor but also as a customer, I am very excited to see how their plans for Amazon Fresh come into play in the near future and hope to be a part of it!

What was your last work social? 

The calendar is full of social events, from regular Thursday Afternoon drinks on the 11^th floor to sporting events where you are as welcome to simply watch and cheer on as you are to participate. Since I joined the firm, I have had the opportunity to go on two of our ‘Summer trips’, where the whole Advisory department is treated to a night away, the most recent of which was a 2-day away trip to Rotterdam in the Netherlands. This was a great trip involving a boat cruise around the Harbour, sightseeing in the old town and a few drinks along the way!

RYDER KING

What are the two best things about your role?

The role involves various and also diverse problem-solving opportunities, analysing property valuations and developing strategies for clients. The role provides the opportunity to conduct research, apply analytical skills, and debate with colleagues in order to provide top-class advice to clients. The entire process of identifying factors that affect property valuations and also strategising to solve clients' problems is intellectually stimulating and rewarding.

In the Rating Advisory team, you have the opportunity to interact directly with clients, whether Landlords, businesses, local authorities, investors etc, and build relationships. Developing deep client relationships enable you to better understand challenges and collaborate more closely, providing a sense of achievement as you assist with navigating the complexities of business rates and contribute to their business strategies.

How long have you been at the firm?

I joined Montagu Evans from the Valuation Office Agency in April 2021 as a Surveyor. I have since been promoted to Senior Surveyor in April 2022 and look forward to my future progression within the partnership.

Why would you recommend the firm and role? 

The reputation and expertise of the firm/team provide exposure to high-profile jobs and clients, which opens the door to some really interesting projects. However, for me, the culture of the team, which is collaborative, supportive and fun, makes working at Montagu Evans extremely fulfilling. I think the work/life balance is perfect, with plenty of opportunities to get involved in various sports, events, and personal development activities.

Tell us about a recent project you have enjoyed working on. 

I have recently advised the very well-known Kew Gardens in Richmond upon Thames. I inspected the 326 Acre site, which is host to over 50,000 living plans and had a full tour of all the buildings and structures, including the Palm House, Temperate House, Prince of Wales Conservatory, and The Nash Conservatory that was originally built in in the grounds of Buckingham Palace was a brilliant experience.

What was your last work social?

Following the end of the last rating list, in April, we had an end-of-list social to celebrate our efforts by having some drinks and throwing some darts. At the end of May, we also had a wellbeing day, where some of the team played golf, and some others tried, followed by a BBQ at Josh's house which, albeit not necessarily being a work social, is a great example of the firm's commitment to ensuring the team's health and mindfulness is front and centre of the Monty's culture.

We are seeking enthusiastic and motivated Chartered Surveyors to join our growing Rating Advisory team. Click here to apply.