Why GMAP is a Great Place to Kickstart Your Career: Insights from Recent Graduates
27th February 2025
Our new Graduates have now been part of the GMAP Team for over 6 Months
Starting a career can be a daunting experience, but having the right environment, support, and training can make all the difference. At GMAP, recent graduates Awais Hafesji and Charlotte Taylor share their journeys and why GMAP has been an ideal place to start their careers as Graduate Consultants. If you're considering applying to GMAP, read on to discover why this company offers a comprehensive, supportive, and innovative environment for ambitious professionals to thrive.
Meet Charlotte and Awais: Recent Graduates Who Are Thriving at GMAP
Awais Hafesji – Graduate Consultant
Awais joined GMAP in July 2024 after graduating from the University of Leeds with a degree in Geography with Quantitative Methods (Industrial). During his time at Leeds, Awais specialized in statistical analysis and modelling, particularly focusing on population health data, and his dissertation examined access to NHS dental care in Local Authorities across England. Prior to GMAP, Awais spent over a year working at NHS England, where he produced and updated analyses and public statistics for policy teams involved with Pharmacy, Optometry, and Dentistry.
Outside of work, Awais is an adventurous person who enjoys physical activities such as group hikes, playing 5-a-side football, and going to the gym. He is also passionate about his professional development, taking part in challenges like the #30DayMapChallenge, which he completed using R code.
Charlotte Taylor – Graduate Consultant
Charlotte joined GMAP in July 2024 after graduating from the University of Leeds with a degree in Geography with Quantitative Methods, specialising in statistical analysis with a particular focus on retail and health geographies. Charlotte also completed a year-long placement working as a Site Research and Insight Analyst for a major sports fashion retailer. During this time, she contributed to the selection of store locations across the UK, Europe, and internationally, gaining valuable experience in site research, consumer behaviour, and the retail industry.
In her spare time, Charlotte stays active by playing padel, going to the gym, and taking long walks. She also enjoys socialising over coffee, always on the lookout for new and hidden cafés to explore.
Comprehensive Training in a Supportive Learning Environment
When Awais and Charlotte first joined GMAP, they were welcomed into a structured, 8-week training program. This program provided them with an in-depth understanding of the business functions, our wide range of clients and the sectors they fall within, and exposure to the different off-the-shelf and bespoke products we provide. This also allowed them to learn technical skills such as using FME, SQL, and Python. The training wasn’t just about mastering software; it was designed to accelerate their development and enable them to contribute to client projects confidently from day one.
Awais reflects, “Although the learning curve for technical skills was steep, the team was incredibly supportive, helping me grow quickly. The hands-on experience I’ve gained has been invaluable, especially when it comes to using these tools for complex tasks.”
Charlotte shares a similar sentiment: “The comprehensive training allowed me to feel confident in my role. I was able to get up to speed with the team’s projects and immediately contribute to developing products and supporting software solutions for clients.”
Diverse Industry Exposure: Real-World Experience Across Multiple Sectors
At GMAP, no two days are the same. The company’s diverse client base spans across multiple industries, including retail, automotive, and health, giving consultants the chance to gain a wide variety of experience. Both Awais and Charlotte were excited by the opportunity to work across these different sectors, helping them build a well-rounded skill set early in their careers.
Charlotte explains, “I’ve had the opportunity to work on projects for industries as diverse as retail and automotive. This diversity of work has not only made my role exciting but has also given me a broader perspective of the challenges businesses face in different sectors.”
Awais adds, “I’ve always had a passion for population health, so working on projects with a focus on healthcare was a great fit. But what excites me even more is the opportunity to apply my skills to different industries and see how location planning can influence decision-making in a range of sectors.”
Early Responsibility & Impact
One of the standout features of GMAP is the responsibility entrusted to graduate consultants from the very start. Unlike larger firms where roles may be more siloed, GMAP offers early exposure to impactful tasks that contribute directly to client success.
Awais had the chance to take on complex tasks such as creating drivetime matrices and updating reporting dashboards, which were integral to client projects.
Charlotte also highlights the early responsibility she was given: “From day one, I was working on the backend production of our location intelligence software and supporting the development of our product offerings. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see your work make a real difference to clients.”
Close-Knit, Collaborative Team Culture
GMAP fosters a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and respect. Awais and Charlotte both appreciate the close-knit and supportive team environment, where everyone’s contributions are valued, and diverse perspectives are celebrated.
Awais shares, “I’ve always felt welcomed and supported here. The team at GMAP is incredibly diverse, and I appreciate how everyone respects and values one another’s backgrounds. This kind of environment encourages creativity and innovation.”
Charlotte echoes this sentiment: “The team culture at GMAP is like no other. Everyone is willing to help each other, and there’s a real sense of camaraderie. I’ve had the chance to work alongside colleagues from different departments, all of whom have supported my learning and growth.”
Flexibility & Career Growth: Tailor Your Path to Your Strengths
Both Awais and Charlotte have been able to tailor their career paths at GMAP by exploring different areas of the business. This flexibility allows employees to identify their strengths and areas of interest, ensuring that their careers align with their passions.
Awais, who has already worked on several projects, looks forward to expanding his role: “As I continue to grow at GMAP, I’m keen to explore different parts of the business and find ways to apply my skills in innovative ways to drive client success. GMAP has provided me with the flexibility to shape my career the way I want whilst aligning to company goals and objectives".
Charlotte also appreciates the room for growth: “I’m excited to continue developing my expertise in location intelligence and data-driven decision-making. GMAP offers ample opportunities to explore different aspects of the business and take on projects that align with my personal interests.”
Encouragement to Innovate & Fast Skill Development
At GMAP, creativity is encouraged, and innovation is at the heart of everything we do. The company fosters a culture of continuous improvement, where new ideas and fresh approaches to problem-solving are always welcomed. For Awais and Charlotte, this focus on innovation has accelerated their skill development.
Charlotte says, “I’ve had the opportunity to contribute creative solutions to projects. Whether it’s enhancing our products or improving workflows, GMAP’s culture of innovation allows me to make an impact while constantly learning.”
Awais agrees: “The blend of technical expertise and consultancy work has been crucial to my development. I’m able to innovate and find more efficient ways to manage client projects, which has led to faster learning and skill-building.”
Work-Life Balance: Prioritising Well-Being
Finally, GMAP’s commitment to work-life balance sets it apart from other firms. While maintaining high standards of work, GMAP values employees’ well-being, offering a supportive environment where personal life is respected.
Charlotte notes, “GMAP truly understands the importance of work-life balance. I feel supported in managing my time, which allows me to stay engaged and focused at work while also making time for my personal life.”
Awais agrees: “The company places a high value on well-being, and this creates a positive and productive work environment where I can thrive both professionally and personally.”
Looking Toward the Future
As they continue their journeys at GMAP, both Awais and Charlotte are excited about the future. With opportunities for growth, exposure to new industries, and the chance to make meaningful contributions to client success, GMAP offers everything a graduate needs to kickstart a career in location intelligence and consultancy.
Awais sums it up well: “GMAP has been a fantastic place to start my career. I’ve already gained so much from the team’s support, the hands-on experience, and the opportunity to work on a variety of exciting projects. I’m looking forward to continuing my journey here and making an even bigger impact.”
Charlotte’s outlook is equally optimistic: “GMAP is the perfect place to learn, grow, and make a tangible impact in the industry. If you’re considering a career in location planning, I highly recommend applying.”
Apply Now
Are you ready to launch your career at GMAP and work alo ngside talented individuals in a dynamic, supportive environment? If you’re passionate about consultancy, data, and making a real impact, apply now to become GMAP's next Graduate Consultant at gmap.com/careers by the 9th March!
