From Apprentice to Chartered Surveyor: Celebrating a Remarkable Professional Journey
At Sheldon Bosley Knight, we believe that talent, determination and opportunity can create extraordinary career journeys. This month, we are delighted to celebrate a significant achievement that perfectly demonstrates those values, as Jennifer Jackson in our Commercial Property Services team has successfully achieved Chartered Surveyor status and become a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS).
A Journey Built on Commitment and Hard Work
Jennifer joined the firm in 2019 with no prior experience in the property industry. Like many people starting a new career, she was entering an unfamiliar world, learning new skills and building knowledge from the ground up.
Recognising the opportunities available within the profession, Jennifer embarked on a development journey in 2020 that would ultimately lead to one of the industry's most respected qualifications.
Over the past six years, she has balanced her day-to-day responsibilities in our Commercial department with an impressive programme of study and professional development. Through the company’s apprenticeship programme, Jennifer completed a university degree while gaining valuable hands-on experience in the workplace.
The next challenge was the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Assessment of Professional Competence (APC), a rigorous process designed to ensure candidates have the technical knowledge, practical experience and professional standards required of Chartered Surveyors.
The countless early mornings, evening study sessions and ongoing commitment to continuing professional development have now paid off – Jennifer has achieved Chartered Surveyor status, earning one of the most respected qualifications in the property profession.
What Is a Chartered Surveyor?
A Chartered Surveyor is a property professional who has met the demanding standards set by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
Chartered status is widely regarded as the gold standard within the property, construction and land sectors. Chartered Surveyors provide expert advice on a wide range of property matters, including:
• Residential and commercial surveys
• Land and development advice
• Property management
• Planning and development consultancy
• Investment and asset management
• Property valuation on all asset classes, including residential and commercial
Their expertise helps clients make informed decisions when buying, selling, investing in or managing property.
What Does It Take to Become a Chartered Surveyor?
Becoming a Chartered Surveyor requires significant dedication and commitment. While routes can vary, the journey typically includes:
1. Completing a relevant degree or apprenticeship programme.
2. Gaining practical, supervised industry experience.
3. Building technical competencies and professional knowledge.
4. Completing the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC).
5. Demonstrating the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and client care. For most candidates, the process takes several years and demands a careful balance between academic study and real-world experience.
Congratulations, Jennifer
Jennifer's achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a reflection of the opportunities available within the property profession for those willing to apply themselves and embrace continuous learning.
Mark Treadwell, Partner & Head of Commercial says: “I can't say enough about the commitment and dedication to study and to this firm, that Jenny has shown since day one. Those of us who work closely with her understand only too well how much she deserves the recognition. It is a pleasure to see Jenny flourish on this career path, and we are extremely proud to have her in our team, now working as a fully qualified Chartered Surveyor.”
Jenny comments: “This achievement means so much to me, not just because of what it represents but because of the journey it has taken to get here. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone at Sheldon Bosley Knight for the opportunities, guidance and trust they’ve given me over the past seven years. If there is one thing this journey has taught me it’s that you don’t need to have everything figured out from the beginning…with the right opportunities, mindset and people in your corner, you can achieve things you once thought were a dream.”
If you are interested in exploring opportunities at Sheldon Bosley Knight, or within the wider SBK Property Group, please visit our careers section.