Telfer King, now 33, who has recently been appointed assistant site manager on the Saltcoats Grange development in Gullane, first joined Cala Homes (East) in 2017 as a labourer at its Castle Bay development in Dunbar – simply looking for steady work to support his young family.

Just over seven years later, the father-of-two has risen through the ranks, marking 2025 with a major career milestone. His progression is a clear example of the developer’s commitment to investing in local talent and creating long-term opportunities within its growing East Lothian operations.

His story is being heralded by the developer, which is doubling down on its ethos of recruiting locally and supporting development and advancement from within the business.

Telfer, who is currently working at Cala’s Saltcoats Grange development in Gullane, said: “I’d worked for a number of different developers before Cala and it was always just a job.

“When I started with Cala that was no different. But what began as a way to make ends meet became an incredible opportunity. Cala saw potential in me and invested in my development.

“I’ve received training in safety, supervisory roles, and site management, supported by mentors who’ve guided me every step of the way.

“When I look at the developments we’ve built, it really fills me with pride. We’re not just building houses; we’re creating beautiful homes for families to enjoy and communities to grow. Knowing that I played a part, and that Cala recognised my efforts and promoted me into site management positions.

“I’ve been mentored by some of the best in the business, and now, as I near the end of my traineeship I’m confident and excited about my future.”

John Sartain, site manager at the nearby Longbanks Green development, neighbouring Dunbar Golf Club, is another to benefit from Cala’s long-term programme of investment in East Lothian and its internal professional development focus.

Starting as a trainee more than a decade ago, John, who along the East Lothian coast in Port Seton, has risen through the ranks, experiencing firsthand the company’s dedication to fostering career progression.

He said: “Cala’s support at every stage has been transformative. From assistant roles to managing major projects, the journey has been challenging and fulfilling. Their focus on employee growth sets them apart from others.”

Strategic land director for Cala Homes (East), Derek Lawson, commented: “Cala has always been about empowering people who show ambition. We are proud of the opportunities we provide, whether it’s graduate roles, apprenticeships, or training programmes. It’s rewarding to see talents like Telfer and John flourish while contributing to our developments.

“Congratulations to Telfer for his well-deserved promotion to assistant site manager.”