Q&A: Amy Murphy, Graduate Planning Consultant, Manchester

Amy Murphy, is a Graduate Planning Consultant in our Manchester office and she has shared her planning career to date.

I joined the JLL Manchester Planning Team in September 2023, after making the trans-Pennine leap, leaving Leeds for Manchester. Before this, I studied my undergraduate degree in BA Geography at University of Liverpool and my Masters degree in MSc Urban Planning at Newcastle University.

1. Why did you want to want to become a Planner?

I was first introduced to planning during my undergraduate Geography degree. I always enjoyed the planning modules most and found it fascinating to learn about how cities have evolved into what we see today and why different types of places tend to pop up in certain locations but not others.

2. Why did you want to join the JLL Graduate Scheme?

The JLL Graduate Scheme really stood out to me when considering which company I wanted to start my career with. The ‘Grad Scheme’ allowed me to start my career surrounded by a large cohort of like-minded graduates, which helped form a great support system for navigating the corporate world. It was also evident I would have the opportunity to be part of a wide array of planning projects across countless different sectors – which what I was looking for most.

The Graduate Scheme’s structure also enables exposure to all areas of commercial real estate and facilitates collaboration with different teams on various projects. The breadth of work has allowed me to gain diverse experience and develop a solid knowledge base in the various sectors.

3. What has been one of your favourite JLL projects that you’ve worked on?

I’ve been fortunate to have worked on a wide range of projects in my year (and a bit) at JLL. One of the most interesting has been helping submit an application for a new school block (including a change of use of a curtilage listed building) on the grounds of a Grade II Registered Park and Garden, in the Green Belt and in a Conservation Area.

The application process taught me extensive technical detail and experience in dealing with multiple constraints within a single project. It also developed my skills in maintaining effective collaboration with the design team and efficiently liaising with the local planning authority. This helped enhance my understanding of project management and stakeholder communication in the planning process.

4. What advice would you give to aspiring planners thinking about applying to the JLL Graduate Scheme?

My advice would be to research both the company to understand JLL's values and culture, and the Planning team to be able to talk about specific case studies and recent wins. Stay updated on industry trends and developments so you can demonstrate genuine interest. Highlight experiences and skills that align with JLL's values and the specific requirements of the Graduate Scheme.

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