My alumni story: how a degree in property management and development led David to where he is today
David Roebuck studied Urban Estate Surveying in the late 70s, graduating in 1981. He shares his story about his career in the real estate and telecommunications industries, and his new book.
By Bev Armstrong | Published on 21 November 2024
Categories: Alumni;
You studied Urban Estate Surveying back in 1981. What made you choose that course?
My favourite subject at school was geography, and, as I had no interest in teaching the subject, a course dealing with towns and cities, their buildings and environment seemed the closest fit. After graduating from Trent, I followed a career path in the property industry, initially in the commercial property sector and later in the telecoms sector.
How did it prepare you for what you’re doing today?
The course was geared towards a career in property encompassing construction, law, economics and planning, amongst other subjects, so provided a perfect grounding. I also chose the part-time version of the degree, so had the practical benefit of a job with a local firm of property surveyors.
What are your standout memories of NTU?
In stark contrast to today’s purpose built accommodation, the standout moments centre on the many great shared times, with three flatmates, in a collection of dubious quality flats around the city, each of whom has remained a lifelong friend. In a city with an already established university, Trent, with its polytechnic roots, always felt like a progressive place to learn, but also offered a memorable student experience. Recent awards suggest that is still the case 40 years later.
You've recently written a book, Your Phone, My Mast – Twenty Five Years in the Telecoms Cast. Can you tell us what inspired you to write this?
I effectively had two careers, the first twenty years involved traditional property work, valuing, negotiating terms, and managing all types of commercial property. My second career was in the telecoms sector, where that experience and skill set were adapted to deal with typically smaller parcels of land and properties housing telecoms masts and rooftop sites.
As I approached retirement, I felt telecoms was a subject relevant to everyone, given our reliance on the mobile phone for almost every facet of everyday life. However, most people probably haven't a clue about the range of trades and professions needed, nor the obstacles faced in creating, managing, and developing a successful telecoms network.
The main aim was to bring that story to the public’s attention, but also make it part memoir by recalling a few tales and interesting case studies from my time in the business. The book also reflects on the seismic changes in phone technology over those twenty five years, from the original basic call and text handsets, to today’s multi-functional devices.
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