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Graduate Planner Review

at Savills

Graduate Scheme

Property Planning

Chester

Review Submitted: August 2026

Overall Rating

3.9 /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!

3.5/5 - Overview of the Role
4.2/5 - Experience & Company Culture
4/5 - Recommendations & Advice

Overview of the Role

Overall, how would you describe your experience at Savills?

My experience at Savills has been positive and rewarding. As a graduate, I have been given exposure to a wide range of planning projects, allowing me to develop both my technical knowledge and professional skills. The support from colleagues has been helpful, and I have found the working environment to be collaborative and approachable. The graduate programme has provided good opportunities, helping me build confidence and progress towards my professional goals.

What are the main responsibilities of the role and which elements of the role do you enjoy the most?

My role involves supporting the planning team across a variety of projects, including preparing planning appraisals, assisting with planning applications, undertaking policy and site research, drafting reports and contributing to project management activities. The aspects of the role I enjoy most are the variety of projects I work across, the opportunity to solve planning challenges and seeing projects progress through the planning process.

To what extent does your role give you the opportunity to contribute meaningfully and feel valued by your team?

4/5
My role provides regular opportunities to contribute meaningfully to a wide range of projects and planning workstreams. I am trusted to take ownership of tasks appropriate to my level of experience, while receiving guidance and support from colleagues when needed. I feel that my contributions are valued by the team.

How does your compensation package - including perks & benefits - fairly remunerate you for the work you do?

3/5
I feel that my compensation package provides fair remuneration for my role and level of experience. I don't feel that there is much in terms of any perks and benefits in addition to my salary which would be appreciated. I think if the business keeps pushing opportunities for gradates it would be better.

How well do you feel the role is preparing you for your future career?

3/5
My role is preparing me well for my future career by providing exposure to a broad range of planning projects, clients and sectors. The variety of work has helped me develop both my technical planning knowledge and wider professional skills, including communication and project management.

How would you rate the extent to which you were developing new or existing skills through formal training and your day-to-day role?

4/5
I would rate the opportunity to develop new and existing skills highly. Through a combination of formal training, the graduate programme and day-to-day project work, I have been able to enhance my technical planning knowledge. Exposure to a variety of projects and clients has helped me develop areas such as report writing, research, communication, project management and problem-solving. The balance between formal learning and practical application has been particularly valuable in supporting my professional development.

Experience & Company Culture

How is the support you receive?

4/5
The support I receive is good. Colleagues across the team are approachable, knowledgeable and willing to provide guidance whenever needed. I think regular feedback on each piece of work would be helpful to develop my technical and professional skills. The graduate programme offers a good level of support through training, networking opportunities and structure development.

How is your work-life balance?

4/5
Work life balance is good. The opportunity to work from home more often could be better and when having to work late at networking events, site visits or conferences, I believe the extra time you spend travelling or working outside of working hours should be given back in lieu.

What is the organisational culture, values and general atmosphere like?

4/5
The organisational culture at Savills is supportive, collaborative and professional. Colleagues are approachable and willing to share knowledge, creating an environment that encourages learning and development. The companies values are reflected through its commitment to delivering high quality work, fostering strong client relationships and supporting employee growth. As a graduate, I have found the atmosphere to be welcoming and inclusive, with opportunities to contribute, learn from experienced colleagues and develop professionally.

How would you rate Savills initiatives when it comes to equality, diversity, inclusion and accessibility?

5/5
I would rate Savills positively in relation to equality, diversity, inclusion and accessibility. The organisation demonstrates a clear commitment to fostering an inclusive working environment. Through company initiatives, training and employee networks, there is a visible effort to promote diversity and ensure colleagues feel supported and valued. From my experience the culture is welcoming and I feel able to contribute as part of the team.

How would you rate Savills CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiatives?

4/5
I would rate Savills' CSR initiatives fairly well. The organisation demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainably, ethical practice and community engagement, while providing employees with opportunities to get involved in volunteering and charitable activities. These initiatives help to create a positive impact, both within and outside the business.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Savills to a friend?

Yes

Why?

Yes I would recommend Savills to a friend. The company provides great opportunities for professional development, exposure to a wide variety of projects, good contacts across all areas of real estate and a supportive working environment. As a graduate, I have benefitted from working alongside experienced colleagues who are willing to share their knowledge and provide guidance.

How well did the role match your expectations based on the recruitment process?

4/5
The role has closely matched the expectations set during the recruitment process. The variety of work, opportunities for development and supportive team environment are in line with what was described.

When considering the recruitment & onboarding process, have you any specific tips or advice you would give to others applying to Savills?

I would encourage applicants to approach the recruitment process with an open mind and a willingness to learn. showing enthusiasm for the role, an interest in the wider property sector and an understanding of Savills' culture can help candidates stand out. Once onboard, I would recommend being proactive in introducing yourself to colleagues across all sectors/departments, seeking opportunities to get involved in projects and taking advantage of the support on offer and training.
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