GOODBYE TO JAMES

James joined Queens Cross Workspace in July 2023 as a Business Development Graduate. After just over a year, James will be leaving us to start a new role with Govan Housing Association. Before we say goodbye, we caught up with James to get a quick summary of what the graduate experience is like with Queens Cross Workspace.

James Berry, always smiling

Tell us a little about you?

I grew up in Kirkcaldy before moving to Stirling to begin my degree in Sports and Business Studies in 2019. From a young age football has always been my main hobby, I left school to play full time for three years and then joined the University of Stirling on a sports scholarship. I still play now at part-time level with Stenhousemuir FC. Other than this I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, and also watching football..

Why did you apply for this job?

Naturally graduate jobs are a go to when leaving university and having a keen interest in business and marketing whilst completing my degree, this was one that caught my eye. Although I didn’t see myself working in property at the time, I felt like this role would give me the opportunity to explore different areas and help shape my future.   

What’s the best bit about the job?

There are so many parts to this role that I enjoy but for me, seeing a new start-up business go from moving into their first premises with us to expanding due to their success is the best. Playing a small part in this process for them is so rewarding and its also great to see the positive impact that these types of businesses have on the Queens Cross community.

What is your favourite Workspace building and why?

This is a tough one but I’m going to have to go with our units on Garscube Road. Although we have nicer looking properties on the eye, these units are so flexible that they accommodate an amazing range of tenants. From bakeries to bike shops these units show just how successful small businesses can be. With many of these run by a single entrepreneur, you also get to know the tenants on a personal level which is nice. 

What is the work life balance like at Queens Cross Workspace?

When searching for jobs after university this element was really important to me due to the football commitments I have. The flexibility in this role definitely ticks those boxes, with working from a home an option and early finishes can also be worked out if required.

What does your typical day look like?

It sounds cliché but no two days are the same in this role. During busy periods when there’s plenty viewings there are days that you will hardly be in the office. Quieter times mainly consist of admin duties and marketing projects, which include managing the Workspace social media profiles and website. Days can often change on short notice too when reacting to repairs or an unscheduled viewing.

What’s the team like?

In this role you work closely with a number of different departments, mainly factoring and finance. The people there are easy to get along with and have no hesitation in helping you out when you’re not sure on something, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. The Workspace team are also great but make sure you are up to scratch on your film/tv knowledge as they love a movie reference.

What are you going to do next?

I am moving on to Govan Housing Association, working in a property officer role at their recently established subsidiary, the Water Row Company. My role here will include overseeing the management of newly built mid-market rental flats and commercial properties.

Any final thoughts?

My time at Queens Cross has been such an enjoyable and rewarding one. I have gained valuable experience in an industry I didn’t know much about and now look forward to establishing a successful career for myself, which will be based on the skills I have learned here. The variation of this role allowed me to discover what interests me most and the learning opportunities available at Queens Cross allow you to tailor your experience towards these. For example, if it is the marketing side of things you take to most, then your main duties can be focused on this and there are plenty of qualifications to work towards.

My advice to any graduates out there would be to consider this role. No matter what your degree is, this is an excellent opportunity to learn more about yourself and kick-start your career.