From store to support centre  

Co-op has supported me at various stages in my life and career, from my very first work placement in store, to my current role in the retail support centre. I'm now happy to be able to support other store colleagues, using my previous experience, to ensure we make the very best decisions for all our colleagues. 

I first started at the Co-op during a college work placement. After really enjoying my week with the team, I was happy to be offered a permanent position afterwards. Balancing work and studying for two years paid off, as I was offered a position at university in Manchester. 

During my degree, I didn’t want to leave the Co-op, so was happy to be able to transfer to another store instead. During this time, I became a team leader, which was challenging alongside my studies, but the store manager was extremely supportive. After I graduated from my degree in business management, I applied for a job at Co-op's retail support centre, working within the resilience and response team. I was offered the role and decided to take the plunge, moving from store to head office, and I have no regrets.  

Supporting store colleagues 

I have experienced three very varied roles whilst working at the Co-op, and each has given me a great set of transferable skills. I know friends and colleagues who have also made the jump from store to support centre, who a few years ago, like myself, would have never pictured themselves where they are now. There is loads of room to progress and colleagues are always supported to move roles within the business if other opportunities are a great fit. 

Luke Kerfoot 

Resilience and Response Officer