Enterprise Advisers are professionals from any industry, who volunteer to work directly with a school or college to develop a strong careers programme and help create opportunities for young people as well a working with the Senior Leadership team on strategic engagement, they bring a business lens, as a “critical friend”, and support plans for bridging the gap between the world of work and education.
Holly Keer – Marketing manger at Bloor Homes, Western Region
I am the Marketing Manager for the Western region of Bloor Homes – a national developer of brand-new homes which has 9 regions across the UK. Amongst various responsibilities, including working with the sales team, with departments across the business, and managing external partners and agencies, I’m proud to help deliver initiatives and support within the local communities we build in across the Western region. Currently we’re delivering a substantial new development in Northfield, providing both private and social housing.
Becoming a Careers Enterprise Adviser for King Edward VI Balaam Wood Academy is a fantastic opportunity to help shape the school’s careers programme, whilst also providing real-world support for its students. I’m delighted to be able to open up both the world of construction and of marketing, and support education on the various avenues students can take to enter these key sectors.
Steve Roberts – Managing Director at Bloor Home, Western Region
I was appointed as Managing Director of Bloor Homes’ Western region in January 2011 and have helped shape the business to deliver prime new residential homes across the region during this time. I studied Town and Country Planning at the University of the West of England and prior to joining Bloor Homes, held roles with several planning consultancies before entering the construction industry. Firstly with Beazer Homes in their Land Department, then with Persimmon Homes as Land Director and finally, as Managing Director with Charles Church in Leamington Spa.
My role requires me to be skilled in a number of areas, including strategic planning, contract negotiation, construction management, project management, business strategy, and commercial management.
By becoming a Careers Enterprise Adviser for King Edward VI Balaam Wood Academy, I hope to demonstrate the business aspect of construction and the many roles available. As a Managing Director, I also wish to share what employers look for in candidates and help students understand the personal skills they need alongside the relevant working skills, so when they can enter the job market they do so with as much information and support as possible.
