Voices of our team
Discover the experiences that shape our culture and drive our success
At BRE, every day brings something new. Our teams are united by a passion for shaping a safer, more sustainable built environment, but it’s our people’s diverse backgrounds, perspectives and talents that truly power our innovation. Whether you’re collaborating across disciplines, exploring fresh ideas or helping drive meaningful change, you’ll find BRE is a place where curiosity is valued, individuality is celebrated and your career can grow in inspiring directions.
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Since joining BRE in August 2022, I’ve learnt just how dynamic and inspiring the organisation is. From day one, I’ve been part of meaningful work and forward‑thinking projects, surrounded by people who share a passion for creating a safer, more sustainable built environment. What stands out most for me is BRE’s diverse, welcoming culture. I work with colleagues from many backgrounds, which makes collaboration energising and encourages fresh ideas. BRE has become more than a workplace, it’s a community that supports my growth, values what I bring, and continually inspires me.
Polly Wilkinson - Head of BRE Academy
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I started at BRE in 2021 as an IT Apprentice and over time, worked my way up to Senior Service Desk Analyst. A highlight of my journey was supporting the introduction of D365, working with the Finance team, G7 and other departments to transition from the old ERP system and ensure everything ran smoothly. The culture at BRE has been a huge part of my development. Colleagues are supportive, approachable and always willing to help, creating a positive atmosphere that makes it easy to learn and progress. With guidance from the Learning and Development team, I’ve been able to build new skills, take on more responsibility and grow confidently into my current role.
Ismael Iqbal - Senior Service Desk Analyst
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After more than a decade at BRE, I’ve experienced a friendly, collaborative and inclusive culture that supports a healthy work-life balance through understanding and teamwork. Working at BRE helped me discover my key skills and find a customer‑facing role where I’ve really excelled. I enjoy working with people who believe in our purpose and want to improve the built environment and their passion for safety and sustainability still motivates me. As BREEAM Partnerships Manager, I maintain and improve relationships with key stakeholders, gather feedback and look for collaboration opportunities and no two days are the same.
Florence Owens - BREEAM Partnerships Manager
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Working at the BRE Science Park feels energising and unique. The mix of desk‑based audits and full‑scale fire testing means there’s always something engaging happening, and the knowledgeable, approachable people around me help me grow in both my core expertise and wider areas. I’m most proud of building and supporting high‑performing teams that continually improve our products and services with the customer at the centre. The culture is inclusive and supportive, with access to senior leadership. BRE has also helped me deepen my sustainability knowledge and gain valuable cross‑functional experience.
Ian Slesser - Deputy Director BPS Operations & Product
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Working at BRE gives me constant opportunities to learn, innovate and grow. I’m most proud of contributing to structural and fire engineering projects that improve building safety, including SAFIR thermal modelling, data analysis and research into member failure criteria. The culture is supportive and knowledge driven, with colleagues who are approachable and passionate about their work. My role has strengthened my technical skills, confidence and cross disciplinary experience. BRE’s flexibility, supportive environment and development opportunities have also helped me maintain a healthy work‑life balance while continuing to grow professionally.
Rosemary Francis - Built Environment Project Engineer
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Working at the BRE Science Park in the built environment team means I am surrounded by people with vast amounts of knowledge, making it a great place to work, whilst learning at the same time. The work varies day to day, so it never feels repetitive. I’ve worked on a wide range of projects, including legal jobs and government projects. I am most proud of a project in Manchester involving a week at the client’s site doing structural fire testing on modular rooms. People at BRE care about their work and since starting as an apprentice in 2022, I’ve been promoted to a lab technician position with training courses that have given me useful knowledge and skills.
Benjamin Callaghan - Built Environment Technician