General management graduate Monika King has urged females to follow their dreams as she reflects on International Women’s Day.

Monika, a Graduate Management Trainee with Persimmon Homes studied Liberal Arts at Royal Holloway, University of London and exemplifies the construction industry’s efforts to attract new recruits from a wider talent pool. 

For Persimmon Homes, this means encouraging people from across the UK who may not have typically entered the industry to join the business as it announces the launch of its new Target 50 initiative

Target 50 sets an ambition for Persimmon to recruit 50 female apprentices or technical trainees into construction-related roles across Great Britain this year. The initiative forms part of Persimmon’s 50^th anniversary celebrations and supports its commitment to building and retaining a more diverse workforce.

You can read more about Target 50 here. 

One new graduate recruit is Monika King who, having completed her university studies, was searching for her first role in business.

“I was keen to pursue a career within the housebuilding industry and was aware of the many career opportunities available,” explains Monika (pictured centre in the photo).

Monika said she hoped International Women’s Day and Persimmon’s new Target 50 initiative would spur more women to consider a future in housebuilding.

“I hope that more women and individuals from a range of backgrounds choose to enter the industry and are welcomed,” said Monika.

“Women should feel that the industry is one that they can thrive within. Ensuring that the industry makes an inclusive and diverse workforce feel welcomed requires constant attention.

“I believe that this is worthwhile as there are benefits from an inclusive workforce, including increased agility and the ability to suggest new approaches that may progress the industry.

“If you are interested in entering the construction industry, go for it. You have skills and qualities that are valuable.”

Persimmon’s two-year graduate programme is formed on rotations in different business functions. Monika is based at Persimmon’s Thames Valley business. She has already been seconded to the New Homes Quality Board, assisting with the launch of the Code and an Ombudsman.

Monika said: “In just a few short months I have already been given opportunities which are far beyond what I anticipated prior to graduation. In my current secondment I am gaining experience in project management, development of IT systems, establishing a Code and an Ombudsman. I am working with senior people and gaining a huge amount of experience.”

Monika’s next challenge will see her join Thames Valley’s technical team before going on to build experience in commercial, construction and sales.

“My advice to students looking for their next move on graduation would be to not let what you have studied or your background limit you in any way,” explains Monika. “It can be tempting to apply for everything you see, but invest your time and effort in what you are passionate about.  The housebuilding industry has delivered for me, and I’m excited for what the future holds.”