Tell us about yourself and your background before joining the graduate programme
I studied BSc Business and Management and MSc International Business at the University of Exeter. From early on, I was interested in the building materials and construction industry because of the huge role it plays in tackling climate change. The construction and operation of buildings account for around 40% of global man-made greenhouse gas emissions, so I saw this industry as a place where I could make a meaningful impact.
I wanted a career where I could combine business, sustainability, and real-world impact and the construction sector offered exactly that opportunity.
Why did you apply to the Kingspan Group Yours to Shape Graduate programme?
I was drawn to the Kingspan Group Yours to Shape Graduate Programme because the company stood out as a genuinely committed to sustainability and innovation.
The company's focus on reducing operational carbon through advanced insulation technologies, together with its Planet Passionate initiative, showed a clear ambition to lead the industry. Commitments such as Science Based Targets and RE100 demonstrated that sustainability wasn’t just a message, it was embedded in the business.
I wanted to be part of a company that was actively shaping the future of the built environment, and the graduate programme offered a unique opportunity to do exactly that.
What role are you in now, and how did the graduate programme help you get there?
I’m currently Regional Sales Manager (South UK) at Tate, where I lead the sales of low embodied carbon raised access flooring systems for high end commercial office projects. I was given this opportunity at quite a young age however in this business with the right enthusiasm and work ethic you can go far. I’m fortunate to work on some of the most high profile commercial office projects in the very heart of London alongside leading architects and developers.
One of the unique things about Tate is that we manufacture, supply, and install our own products, which means I’m closely involved throughout the entire project lifecycle. My role combines sales, project management, and technical problem-solving — from site visits and technical reviews through to commercial negotiations and project delivery. On each project, I work closely with main contractors, architects, and end clients, as well as our in-house estimators and contracts teams who ultimately deliver the installation.
The graduate programme gave me a fantastic foundation and every move I’ve made has helped me grow and opened new doors in my career. I’ve met fantastic people along the way and gained experiences that I wouldn’t have had if I’d stayed in one place. If you want to accelerate your development, challenge yourself, and build a truly international career, relocating can be one of the best decisions you make.
The programme accelerated my development and helped me build strong communication, influencing, and presentation skills — capabilities that are essential in my role today.
What led you to take on a role in a new location?
I began my career at Tate in Hull, then worked at Kingspan Insulated Panels in Cavan, Ireland, before returning to Tate's commercial team based in London. While I’ve always aimed for sales, my background in marketing, research, and specifications prepared me for my current role, where technical and sustainability knowledge is key.
By providing environmental analysis, I often help shift specifications in our favour despite strong competition.
In what ways has relocating helped you grow professionally?
Over four and a half years, I relocated three times, which taught me the value of adaptability and working across cultures. Sometimes the next role you want just so happens to be in a different country!
What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
When moving to the country it can take a while to settle in but if I were to offer any piece of advice it would be to get stuck in. Join that local gym, join that local sports club, say yes to that invite out with colleagues. People make the place!
What would you say to a colleague who’s thinking about relocating with the company?
Go for it! I met loads of great people with each move, and it’s really helped in my career.
Interested in learning more about Career Opportunities with Tate?