WORKING AS A WAREHOUSE TEAM MANAGER AT CO-OP - VICKY'S STORY

How and why did you first join Co-op Logistics?

I joined the Co-op 10 years ago, when I started with the agency as a warehouse operative. I was in role for about 2 years, before leaving for 6 months for another opportunity, but eventually made my way back to Logistics at Castlewood. I realised the Co-op gave me stability, I was paid a good, regular wage and the shifts suited what I was looking for, so it was a no brainer to come back.

How have you grown and progressed your career at Castlewood depot?

In 2019, I applied for an Engagement Support Assistant role and was in role for nearly 4 years. It was a really interesting role where I worked closely with the depot teams to communicate and engage with the colleagues on site. My passion however was to become a Team Manager, but I had no experience of leading a team, so I joined the engagement side of things to gain more depot experience and work alongside different people from all over the depot.

With the knowledge and experience I had gained, I became a Transport Team Manager in 2023. I thoroughly enjoyed the Team Manager position, working alongside other leaders and doing all I could to support my team, but the hours didn’t suit my life. With that, I moved to become a Warehouse Team Manager in October 2025 on a different shift pattern which is perfect for my current lifestyle.

I am currently working around the different areas on site - I've worked in de-kit and loading, and my plan is to move into ambient and then chill eventually, but my aim is to understand the whole operation and not be limited to one area. 

What do you enjoy about your role?

I really enjoy the challenge it brings, the responsibility I have as a Team Manager. I'm putting myself out of my comfort zone at times, and that’s where I thrive. I even put myself forward to join the Women in Logistics apprenticeship programme to learn and push myself more.

What did the Women in Logistics apprenticeship programme entail and what have you learnt?

Being in a very male dominated industry, I feel it's so important to get more women into leadership positions. This programme was to help women progress in this industry. Not only has it taught me how to manage people, manage my own time and how to overcome the challenges women face in this industry, but its helped me communicate better and how I can put my opinions forward. Don't get me wrong, it's been tough at times - being a woman in a male dominated team, but I feel it's giving me the courage to stand up and influence how they think.

I've recently passed the programme, which I'm really proud of. It was such a fantastic programme to be a part of, and totally up my street.

And what are your future career plans?

Completing the apprenticeship, has given me the realisation that I'd love to climb the ladder even further and maybe even become a Shift Manager in the future.