Commercial Management Trainee Review
at Willmott Dixon
Degree Apprenticeship
Surveying
Cardiff / Caerdydd
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
4.9 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.8/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
As a Trainee Quantity Surveyor , I support the commercial management of construction projects from initial estimates to final accounts. My responsibilities include assisting with cost planning, tendering, contract administration, and site valuations. I regularly carry out quantity take-offs, help monitor project budgets, and liaise with contractors and site teams. Through hands-on experience and guidance from senior QSs, I am developing key skills in cost control, measurement, reporting, and contract procedures, while building a solid understanding of the construction process.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I thoroughly enjoy my programme as I have the opportunity to move around different departments on placement (between 2 weeks - 3 months), this includes site management, design, health & safety etc. This has taught me a lot of valuable skills and technical information that I wouldn't have had the exposure of in any other programme
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Since starting as a Trainee Quantity Surveyor, I’ve developed strong commercial awareness and a solid understanding of large-scale project delivery. I’ve gained hands-on experience in cost management, subcontractor procurement, and package management, as well as exposure to NEC and JCT contracts. Working in a fast-paced environment has enhanced my attention to detail, time management, and problem-solving skills. I've also built confidence in communicating with multidisciplinary teams, managing valuations, and handling variations, all while maintaining a proactive and professional approach on site and in the office.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
I feel as though my programme is extremely structured, from day dot I was made aware of who I would be working with and where, with a structured programme in place for all my different placements. We also catch up with our programme director every 6-8 weeks, this gives us the opportunity to address any queries or concerns.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I couldn't ask for more support from my employer - everyone within the business is happy to help and I never feel like a burden.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
Again, I couldn't ask for more support, we have dedicated study days that we are allowed to utilise throughout the year, we are encouraged to undertake uni work if we have downtime during the day. My colleagues are also happy to help if I have any questions regarding exams/assignments.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I feel as though my qualifications are a great asset to my hands-on learning, however, I feel my experience in the business helps me more with my University work than the latter.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Yes, there are many social events throughout the year that we can attend and our programme director encourages us to attend as many professional networking events as possible in order to expand our contacts within the industry.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Willmott Dixon to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It is a great, family orientated company who take pride in their people, nothing is ever too much and there is so much support for young people climbing the ranks.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Willmott Dixon?
Be yourself and show ambition. You will go very far if your determined in Willmott Dixon.
