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Although there are no set entry requirements, estate managers have a relevant qualification, often at degree level. This could be in, for example building surveying, property management or facilities management. To get onto a degree course, you need appropriate level 3 qualifications. Some estates managers join the NHS as, for example, estates technicians and become managers with experience and further qualifications. Employers may ask for a driving licence. When you become an estates manager your training will include an introduction to the department and its systems and procedures. You will be expected to keep your skills and knowledge up to date by going on short courses on particular topics such as risk analysis or contract management. You may be encouraged to take further qualifications in, for example, project management.

Estates managers working in the NHS are paid on the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay system. You will typically start on AfC band 7. With further training and experience, you could apply for more senior positions up to band 9. Estates managers in the NHS work standard hours of around 37.5 a week. The job may involve attending meetings or events in the evenings or at weekends. Terms and conditions will usually be different for estates managers working outside of the NHS.

Estates managers need to have an interest in buildings and property, work on several different projects at once, be able to meet deadlines and work with contractors and others from the construction industry. They also need good communication, negotiating, organisational, project management and business skills.

With experience, estates managers can progress to become senior managers such as area managers or directors. There may be opportunities outside the NHS.

There is no set entry route to become a nutritionist. The Association for Nutrition (AfN) maintains the UK Voluntary Register of Nutritionists (UKVRN). There are three categories of UKVRN registrant: (i) registered nutritionist (RNutr) with nutrition specialism in public health, nutrition science, sport & exercise, food or animal nutrition; (ii) associate nutritionist (ANutr); (iii) Fellow of AfN (FAfN). All registrants have a degree in nutrition sciences or substantial peer-recognised professional nutrition experience and adhere to AfN Standards of Ethics, Conduct and Performance. To get onto a nutrition degree course you usually need appropriate level 3 qualifications. For a Masters you need a relevant degree or professional qualification. You will have the training you need to do the job which is likely to include an introduction to the area and local groups and agencies. Nutritionists need to make sure they keep their knowledge and skills up to date.

Nutritionists working in the NHS are paid on the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay system. You would typically start on AfC band 5, but you should check individual job vacancies for details. With further training and experience, you could apply for more senior positions at bands 6 and above. Most nutritionists working in or with the NHS work standard hours, which are likely to be around 37.5 a week. They may work some evenings or weekends. Elsewhere the hours may vary depending on the needs of the employer or the project. Terms and conditions will usually be different for nutritionists working outside of the NHS.

Nutritionists need to be interested in science and food, positive and able to motivate others , understanding of other people and their lifestyles and able to explain complex things simply. They also need an understanding of science, organisational and communication skills.

As you gain experience, you can take on more senior roles in projects and departments. You could progress to larger projects or become a project leader or co-ordinator.