Jignesh Patel

What attracted you to the Mace Graduate Development Programme?

I had worked a year at Mace during my Industrial Placement year and found the projects and people of Mace to be of a high level. I had interacted with many Graduates during that year, all of who highly recommended the Graduate scheme and outlined the standard of training provided during the two years.

What has been the best thing about Mace's Graduate Development Programme?

Being able to network with many colleagues from the business and build a network 

What advice would you give to someone applying for the graduate scheme at Mace?

Read the Mace Gradcracker Hub thoroughly, there is so much useful information on there about Mace and what the company is trying to achieve. Try as best as you can to align examples with the values and purpose of Mace. 

What was your childhood ambition?

Funnily enough it was to be a Project Manager…

Why Mace?

It’s the best company to be a part of in this industry, the knowledge, ambition and high reputation the company has is invaluable at the start of a graduates career. The company also allows you to grow and provides you with the best opportunities to do so.

What your roles includes e.g. typical activities and key responsibilities

• Managing the team and co-ordinating all information required for the project back to the client. 
• Reporting and client meetings.
• Solution solving with the team.

What makes Mace a great place to work

I think the people, everybody is super friendly and willing to help you. There is so much knowledge in this company, so you find yourself learning everyday.

Also, the projects – we bid for the best projects out there, having that on your CV is valuable. 

What training have you received?

The training on the graduate scheme, the compulsory training courses when you join (bribery etc.), and I’ve had further training on NEC and JCT contracts, as well as sustainability 

The best and worst pieces of your job

• Best – It’s a challenge. Keeps you thinking and you need to be sharp. Also when you can work through a problem and be at the forefront managing it and deliver good news to clients, it’s very rewarding.
• Worst – Hours can be long 

How your career has progressed at Mace

I’ve been at the company for 3 years and have reached Project Manager. It has been a very good progression and I can see myself growing and taking the lead on aspects of projects.