From Graduate to Partner. Hettie’s story of saying yes

Learning the ropes

Before joining the graduate programme, Hettie had already completed an internship at Newmark (then Gerald Eve) - an experience that sparked her interest in the firm’s culture and breadth of work. “I didn’t have a fixed idea of what I wanted to do,” she admits. “So, I just tried to take every opportunity that was given.”

The graduate programme consisted of four full rotations, each offering a different lens into the industry. From inspecting multi-million-pound homes in central London to assessing quarries and cement plants, the variety was eye-opening. “The scale of the business meant I gained exposure to some really unusual areas.” she explains. “It gave me a broader insight into what being a surveyor could mean.”

What stood out most in those early days was the culture. “People were so approachable, from senior partners to junior colleagues.” Hettie recalls. “It wasn’t hierarchical. Everyone was willing to give you their time.”

Making her own way

After completing the graduate programme, Hettie joined the Development team, followed by a six-month secondment with a client. That experience, part technical and part relationship-building, proved pivotal. “Looking back, I can see how important that secondment was” she reflects. “Not just for the technical experience, but for building a strong relationship between Newmark and the client. It helped us embed ourselves in their world, and that’s something I’ve carried forward in my work ever since.”

Her career then took a turn towards business management, when she began managing Gerald Eve’s International Alliances. When Gerald Eve was acquired by Newmark, her role accelerated. “There wasn’t a playbook. I have scoped the role myself, which was challenging but exciting. I had the support, but also the freedom to shape something new.”

Over the years, Hettie progressed through roles like Strategic Projects Manager and Senior Associate, before becoming a Partner. “I spent about two years in each role” she explains. “I’ve had some unusual titles along the way, but each step taught me something new.”

Growing into leadership

Leadership, Hettie says, wasn’t something she planned for. But the graduate programme laid the groundwork. “The trust was there to be earned.” she says. “And when you show you’re ready, people here are willing to give it to you.”

Networking with colleagues outside of the office has also been influential in Hettie’s progress, where captaining a work sports team helped build confidence and resilience. “You’re managing people of all levels; partners, senior associates, graduates in a different environment. It gave me confidence and helped me grow.”

The graduate programme’s structure also played a role. “Peer-to-peer learning was powerful. Everyone had different rotations, so you learned from each other. And the company-wide networking opportunities really helped me build relationships throughout the firm.” she adds.

What Hettie’s learned

Looking back, Hettie feels one lesson stands out the most. “The more I’ve put in, the more I’ve got out. Speak to people, be curious, and immerse yourself in the whole experience.”

Her advice to future joiners? “Fully commit. Be open-minded. My career now is nothing like what I imagined when I joined. But Newmark is a place where good people are noticed and nurtured. It’s not just about the graduate programme. It’s a long-term environment that helps you thrive.”

Are you smart, ambitious, and ready to make an impact? Then you belong here. Applications for our early careers pathways are now open.

Begin here.