Young Achiever of the Year announced by Persimmon

December 11, 2018 / Keith Osborne
Young Achiever of the Year announced by Persimmon

National housebuilder Persimmon Homes has announced its prestigious Young Achiever of the Year award, presenting Billy Kettlewell with the prize which recognises for the success of his career so far.

23-year-old Billy was also named winner of the Duncan Davidson award, named after the founder of Persimmon. This is given to young people demonstrating the same “entrepreneurial flair and spirit” that Davidson had when setting up the company in 1972, having previously established another housebuilding brand in 1965 before selling it on.

The Bristolian winner was 16 when he joined Persimmon Homes Severn Valley on its Management Trainee Scheme, having decided that he didn’t want to go to university. He’s made his way up to site manager in seven years, now working on a development in Weston-super-Mare.

Presented with the award, he said: “It was quite daunting starting work with all your friends heading off to university, but I have learnt so much and the opportunities presented by the business have helped build solid foundations for my career.”

“It was a great honour to be recognised for my efforts in a job that I thoroughly enjoy. I’ve learnt so much with Persimmon, not only at college, but also with first-hand experience on site. I thoroughly enjoy working with different people on a day-to-day basis. The Persimmon team has been very supportive throughout my training and development.”

Richard Latham, group HR director, said: “Our Young Achievers award programme was launched in 2014 to showcase apprentices and trainees who have gone above and beyond to succeed in their role.

“Billy’s achievements demonstrate the progression that working for a large organisation can present and the career opportunities available to young people with Persimmon Homes. Whilst working for the company for the last seven years, Billy has demonstrated a determination to succeed throughout his employment.

“Having proved himself as he continues to produce results, we now entrust Billy to train our new site managers. His hard work and positive outlook to his career is inspiring the next generation of Persimmon site managers. Junior members of staff truly aspire to have the same work ethic, enthusiasm and dedication to the role.”

The region’s managing director Steve Roche added: “Billy is a genuine asset to the business and we are very proud to see him recognised in this way.”

“He is a team player and a great communicator, purchasers are always complimentary of him. He has built up good working relationships with his colleagues and continues to be a valued member of the regional team. We can see a bright future for Billy at Persimmon Homes.”

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