For me, there isn't a more rewarding career

From Funeral Service Operative to Regional Operations Manager, Christine's Co-op journey shows how passion, ambition and a commitment to caring for others can open the door to a rewarding career. 

When did you start with Co-op?

I joined Co-op Funeralcare 11 years ago as a Funeral Service Operative and quickly realised I'd found a career where I could make a real difference to people while continuing to grow and develop. Since then, I've had the opportunity to build experience across a variety of roles, taking on increasing responsibility and developing my leadership skills along the way.

Throughout my career, I've been driven by a desire to learn, challenge myself and support others. This has given me the chance to lead teams, help colleagues develop their skills, and work across different regions to share best practice and improve the service we provide to families.

Each opportunity has helped broaden my understanding of the business and strengthen my confidence as a leader. The experience I gained supporting teams across the Anglia region ultimately led to my current role as Regional Operations Manager, a position I've held since 2020.

Looking back, I've always seen Funeralcare as much more than a job. It's a career that's allowed me to continually develop, take on new challenges and, most importantly, support colleagues in delivering exceptional care to families when they need it most.

What did you do before joining Co-op, and what attracted you to Funeralcare?

Before joining Co-op, I worked as a Police Officer. When I became a parent, the shift patterns no longer suited my circumstances, so I retrained as a legal representative, which gave me more flexibility around my working hours.

While working in that role, I started looking for a part-time position and was drawn to Funeralcare. Many of the skills I'd developed in the police, such as supporting people through difficult situations, communicating with empathy and working under pressure, transferred naturally into the role.

I'd also experienced situations during my policing career that meant I wasn't unfamiliar with some of the more challenging aspects of Funeralcare. Most importantly, I was attracted by the opportunity to help people when they needed support the most.

Have you had the support and opportunities to develop?

Absolutely, but I've also been proactive in seeking them out. At Co-op, owning your development is really important, and that's something I've always embraced. I'm someone who enjoys a challenge and is always looking for opportunities to learn and grow. Throughout my career at Co-op, I've actively sought additional responsibilities and development opportunities whenever I've felt ready to take the next step and broaden my experience.

I've also completed a Level 6 Business Management Degree Apprenticeship. It gave me valuable insights into leadership, self-reflection and people management. It helped me better understand my own strengths and areas for improvement, as well as how to adapt my leadership style to support different colleagues and teams.

For anyone with the ambition to develop, there are lots of opportunities and support available.

What are you most proud of during your time at Co-op?

There have been many moments that I'm proud of.

As a Funeral Service Operative, I found it incredibly rewarding to help prepare a loved one so they looked just as their family remembered them. Knowing that it could bring comfort at such a difficult time meant a great deal.

As a Funeral Director, I was proud of the service we delivered and seeing the gratitude from families who felt supported throughout the funeral journey.

Today, as a Regional Operations Manager, my proudest moments come from seeing the incredible work of my teams. Reading the feedback they receive from families and seeing the difference they make every day is hugely rewarding. Their compassion, professionalism and dedication make me incredibly proud.

Some people might not see Funeralcare as a career. What would you say?

For me, there isn't a more rewarding career. Supporting families through one of the most difficult times in their lives is a privilege, and knowing you've helped make that experience just a little easier is incredibly meaningful.

The people who work in Funeralcare are truly special. They care deeply about what they do and go above and beyond to support families when they need us most.

If you're looking for a career where you can make a genuine difference to people's lives, Funeralcare offers that every day. And once you experience how rewarding it can be, it's hard to imagine doing anything else.