Making Vistry

Tell us about your role at Vistry and what you enjoy most about it.
I’m a Technical Co‑ordinator in the Technical team and have been with Vistry for just over six years. I joined the business as a Development Secretary, where I supported the team with administrative tasks such as invoice processing, minute‑taking, drawing control, diary management and meeting coordination.

In my current role, I oversee the technical aspects of projects across the NWM region. This includes reviewing and issuing designs, ensuring compliance with building regulations and commercial requirements, coordinating and chairing project meetings, supporting planning matters, and acting as the technical point of contact throughout the project lifecycle — from land appraisal through to site adoption.

What I enjoy most is how varied and well‑rounded the role is. Although I sit within one department, I’m involved across all stages — from land bid queries and start‑on‑site requirements to build queries and customer service support. No two days are the same, and I’m constantly learning.

What was your starting role, and what did your early career look like?
I joined Vistry, then Countryside, in February 2020 as a Development Secretary, providing administrative support across the team. This included processing invoices, taking minutes, coordinating meetings, managing diaries, issuing drawings and ensuring documentation was controlled and stored correctly.

The role gave me daily exposure to technical and development work, which sparked my interest in becoming more involved. It also helped me build strong organisational and communication skills before moving into a technical role, where I could apply analytical thinking and practical problem-solving while continuing to learn.

What attracted you to Vistry and the housebuilding sector?
Before joining Vistry, I worked in the consultancy industry within structural and civil engineering as a PA, which gave me an insight into construction. I was looking for something faster‑paced and more dynamic, which led me to housebuilding — particularly timber frame construction, where progress happens much quicker than I initially expected.

What key steps or turning points helped you progress in your career?
The support of the region played a huge role in my progression. Everyone was open to my willingness to learn and took the time to help me build my knowledge, confidence and career.

Were there any skills you had to develop quickly when you moved roles?
I had to quickly develop further understanding of the building regulations, NHBC standards, interpretating technical drawings, and managing approvals so the project could continue effectively, while supporting the project team.

What challenges did you face when moving into a new role? And how did you overcome these and did Vistry help?
One of the biggest challenges I faced when moving from administration into a Technical Coordinator role was adapting to the level of technical knowledge required, including understanding drawings, specifications, engineering terminology, building regulations and NHBC standards. I overcame this by being proactive, asking questions, reviewing drawings carefully and making full use of the support from colleagues across the business. That support helped me build confidence and grow both professionally and personally.

Have you developed any skills or experience you didn’t expect to?
I didn’t expect to return to education. After finishing my A Levels, I went straight into administration at 18 and didn’t feel university was the right path for me.

Once I discovered my passion for Technical, I wanted to deepen my knowledge. I’m now graduating with an HNC in Construction while working full time — something I’m very proud of.

Why have you chosen to build your career at Vistry?
Vistry has a strong reputation for quality, innovation and building communities. There’s a genuine emphasis on learning and career development, which I’ve experienced first‑hand.

It’s an environment where I can continue to grow professionally, contribute to meaningful projects, and work as part of a supportive and collaborative team.

What are your goals for the future?
I’d like to progress into a more senior technical leadership role, continue developing my technical expertise, and support and mentor others within the team.