Team Leader Review

Shift leader responsible for all aspects of the running of the store including the leadership and management of colleagues. Complete all aspects of due diligence processes, manage any customer enquiries, take responsibility for the direction and delegation of work for colleagues to maximise sales ensuring stock levels and availability are at optimum levels. Ensure the store is secure on closing and all financial processes are completed.

Yes. I am completely new to retail (having previously worked in education) so everything I do now in my role is completely new to me. This is supported by online training, support from management colleagues and the apprenticeship programmes. My employer is investing in improved IT processes which improve our ability to perform better and be more productive. Any new initiatives are always backed up with training however the time allocated to complete this (and undertake the usual aspects of my role) is limited so I tend to do training in my own time at home.

I am currently studying for the adult literacy programme as an access course to my apprenticeship which will start in April. Despite having 2 x (grade C) GCSE qualifications in English and being qualified to teach secondary school English, my certification of these qualifications wasn’t accepted so I have had to undertake the adult literacy course. It has been a well-delivered programme but I do not feel I have learned anything new as a result of this.

Due to the lockdown restrictions, all learning has been online. This was well organised and communication has been excellent. There have been difficulties in organising the exam due to the lockdown however this is currently being arranged.

My employer has provided hours to my store for me to study for my programme. Whilst studying for my my adult literacy course, I have not required any additional support in store. My manager is keen for me to develop my role and understanding of the field of retail once the full apprenticeship is underway.

Despite the lockdown restrictions, communication and accessibility have both been excellent. If I’m honest, and without wanting to appear arrogant, I haven’t really enjoyed the adult literacy course as I haven’t learned anything new. This is not the fault of the tutor just ‘red tape’ which meant I had to resit an English qualification. This has not been a good use of time or resources unfortunately.

As per previous responses, not at all. I am looking forward to the more specific retail training which will help me develop my understanding of the industry and therefore improve my performance in my role. I hope this, in turn, will help me to progress in my new career.

There is a considerable emphasis upon personal development and supporting the community at the Coop. Despite being an single employee in such a large organisation I feel valued and invested in. The ethics of the company are excellent and there are many activities and programmes to get involved in. I genuinely feel their principles are embedded in practice.

Yes

The Coop promote genuine, community-focused principles through their practice. There is considerable investment in staff well-being and staff benefits are generous. There are frequent requests for feedback and communication is excellent, particularly from head office. The programmes for personal development are well-considered and this investment in the workforce supports different learning styles for staff at all levels. I honestly feel proud to work for the coop!

Be prepared to work hard! It’s a physically demanding job which requires speed and efficiency. There are challenges (like any workplace) but there is an excellent team ethos. It is fun and I now have a great work/life balance (something which was a significant issue in my previous career in education and led me to leave). The hours can be antisocial (7 days per week 0530 - 2300) so this should be considered if you have other commitments which would be compromised by this.