A Graduate's Guide to Sustainability

After working as a Senior Architect for nine years in both Madrid and Dublin, I made the transition from architecture to a career in real estate in 2022. I began pursuing an MSc in Real Estate part-time at TU Dublin over a 2.5-year period. This decision felt like a natural progression, allowing me to transfer my design, planning, spatial visualization, and project management skills. It also presented an exciting challenge to bridge the gap in my knowledge regarding asset values, market trends, key players, and real estate cycles.

Sustainability Consultancy

In September 2023, I had the invaluable opportunity to join the CBRE graduate rotation program, specifically within the Sustainability Consultancy Team. In this role, I assist occupiers and investors in understanding ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations and guide them in implementing strategic solutions. My responsibilities include providing sustainability services for buildings, such as certifications like WELL and BREEAM in use. Our team also focuses on energy management and strategic solutions, including developing Asset Improvement Plans, conducting Sustainability Due Diligence, ensuring legislative compliance, aligning with the EU Taxonomy, and implementing ESG strategies. I collaborate closely with various markets, including CBRE UK and CBRE Spain.

The CBRE Ireland Sustainability Consultancy Team operates within the Project Management and Building Consultancy Team, working closely with Agency, Capital Markets and Property Management to provide integrated sustainability solutions. This rotation offers graduates a brilliant opportunity to work in an increasingly crucial component of the real estate market. ESG considerations play a significant role in property value, risk mitigation, and responsible development. Graduates benefit from exposure to a diverse team of property professionals, including Building Surveyors, Quantity Surveyors, Project Managers, M&E Engineers, and Architects.

Working at CBRE

CBRE Ireland combines local market knowledge with multidisciplinary service lines, ensuring integrated services for clients. Additionally, CBRE Ireland has direct access to CBRE’s global expertise and network.

The most rewarding aspect of my rotation in Sustainability Consultancy has been working with a supportive team of experienced professionals. They combine their skills and knowledge to provide targeted solutions for our clients. The supportive environment encourages career development and knowledge sharing, particularly among junior staff members.

What’s Next?

Currently, I’m working on my MSc Real Estate dissertation, which I plan to submit in December as the final step in my studies. I’m also preparing for the APC (Assessment of Professional Competence) training program to become a Chartered Surveyor. My goal is to advance my real estate career and expand my professional network within CBRE. Looking ahead, I aim to acquire practical valuation skills and gain exposure to various aspects of valuing different property asset classes, to enhance my understanding of how ESG considerations impact property values and can be integrated into valuation models, gaining a broad understanding of each stage of the property lifecycle.