At Common Ground, we believe that you can’t be what you can’t see. That’s why we’ve launched Career Stories, a new video series designed to shine a spotlight on the inspiring journeys of professionals from across the property and built environment sectors. 

Through honest and open conversations, Career Stories explores how people found their way into the industry, the challenges they faced along the way, and the lessons they learned throughout their careers. Our aim is to help young people discover career paths and opportunities they may never have considered before, while showing that there is no single route into the world of property and the built environment. 

For the first episode in the series, we sat down with Mark Kelly, Disposals & Development Director at TT Group. Growing up on the Larner Road Estate in South East London, Mark left school at 16 and secured his first role in the post room at BT after visiting the local job centre. More than four decades later, he has built an impressive career with stints at BT and Telereal Trillium, culminating in his current leadership role at TT Group. 

Mark’s story is a powerful reminder that talent exists everywhere, and that background should never define ambition. We hope his journey inspires the next generation to explore the many opportunities available across our industry. 

Watch the full interview below.