Cora’s commitment to sustainability was what inspired Graduate Planner Jess O’Neil to make the switch to this exciting industry.

Jess joined the team in August, having graduated with a First Class degree in History from the University of Sheffield. A chance introduction to Cora left history firmly in the past however as her passion for the environment inspired her to join us through our graduate scheme.

Jess said: “My parents both work in planning, but I hadn’t ever considered following in their footsteps and joining the industry. “After I graduated, however, I began noticing more and more urban regeneration projects and started learning about the sustainability side of things. The more I saw, the more I knew I wanted to get involved in planning.

“I then heard about Cora, their potential graduate scheme and their environmental credentials, which really interested me. So I sent in my CV, and was told this role would soon be available.”

Jess’s stellar work has seen her become an integral part of the planning team, supporting her colleagues in a range of areas.

Through our graduate scheme she has also been enrolled in a master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Birmingham, spending one day a week in the classroom.

Jess added: “It has been great so far – I’m loving the role. Everyone in the team is so friendly and happy to help with any questions I have – both for work and my master’s degree.

“Sustainability is very close to my heart so learning more about things like biodiversity net gain here at Cora will be of great benefit to my career.

“Much of my work so far has revolved around identifying new strategic sites for us to create more sustainable communities. I’m also doing work around appraisals and discharges – it’s all really interesting.”

At Cora, we are passionate about bringing more talent into the housebuilding industry and creating a new generation of sustainability conscious professionals.

Our graduate scheme has already benefited fellow university leavers like Jess take the first step in their career.

Visit our careers page to learn more about the roles available in the team.