Mark Baker has graduated with First Class Honours in his BSc (Hons) Construction Management Degree Apprenticeship and achieved MCIOB Chartered Membership.
Mark’s achievement highlights the value of apprenticeships as a route to professional and career development at any stage of working life. Having joined GRAHAM as a mature student, he successfully combined work-based learning with professional development to achieve First Class Honours and MCIOB Chartered Membership, demonstrating the opportunities apprenticeships can create within the construction industry.
His achievement also highlights that apprenticeships are not solely for school leavers or young people. Joining GRAHAM as a mature student in September 2018, Mark embraced the opportunity to develop new skills, gain qualifications and progress his career, proving that apprenticeships can offer meaningful career advancement for individuals at every stage of their professional journey.
Building a Career in Planning
Since joining GRAHAM, Mark has built an impressive career within the England South region, progressing from Trainee Planner, Assistant Planner, and most recently Planner over the past eight years. His progression is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through dedication, continuous learning and a commitment to professional development.
As a Planner, Mark plays a vital role in the successful delivery of construction projects. Working closely with project teams, he develops and manages construction programmes, identifies risks and opportunities, monitors progress and helps coordinate the many activities required to deliver complex projects safely, efficiently and on time.
Planning is a rewarding and varied career that sits at the heart of project delivery. Combining technical expertise, problem-solving, communication and strategic thinking, planners help shape how projects are delivered from concept through to completion. It offers exciting opportunities to work across a wide range of sectors, contribute to high-profile developments and build a fulfilling career within the construction industry.
Delivering Landmark Projects in London and the South East
Throughout his career, Mark has contributed to several notable projects across London and the South East, including Kew Gardens, Whittington Hospital, Hillingdon Hospital and most recently Stratford Mill, a Build-to-Rent development comprising 247 apartments, commercial spaces, landscaped green areas and modern amenities.
These projects have enabled him to develop specialist planning expertise across healthcare, heritage and residential sectors while supporting developments that enhance communities and contribute to the region’s continued growth.
Throughout his time with GRAHAM, Mark has embraced every opportunity to learn and develop. Beginning with a BTEC and HND at East Surrey College, he later progressed to London South Bank University, where he completed his BSc (Hons) Construction Management Degree Apprenticeship with First Class Honours. Combining academic study with practical experience on live projects enabled him to deepen his technical knowledge, build confidence and develop the professional judgement that supports him in his role today.
His achievement of a Distinction in his End Point Assessment, alongside achieving MCIOB Chartered Membership, is a testament to his professionalism, dedication and commitment to excellence within the construction industry.
Ray Ferguson, Regional Planning Director at GRAHAM, said:
Attracting and retaining planning talent is a key priority for our business, particularly across London and the South East. Mark’s achievement is a brilliant example of how apprenticeships can help people build successful, long-term careers in planning while developing the skills our industry needs.
Start Your Career with GRAHAM
Mark’s story demonstrates the opportunities available through apprenticeships and early career pathways at GRAHAM. Whether you are leaving school, considering a career change, or looking to develop within the construction industry, GRAHAM provides opportunities to gain hands-on experience, professional qualifications and long-term career development.
We are currently recruiting through the GRAHAM Academy, including opportunities within our London and England South region. From planning and project management to engineering and construction delivery, GRAHAM provides a platform to develop new skills, gain recognised qualification and build a rewarding career.
Inspired by Mark’s journey? Apply for GRAHAM Academy today: https://www.graham.co.uk/work-with-us/careers/