I've been given the opportunity to get involved in all sorts of projects whilst in role at Newhouse

When did you join Co-op Logistics?

In December 2021, we were coming to the end of Covid and I'd been 8 months unemployed, so I was really looking for work opportunities, when I came across a Warehouse Operative role at Co-op. 

How have you progressed from a warehouse operative at Newhouse?

I was in role for around 10 months, before applying and getting the Transport Clerk secondment position. I'd initially applied as my manager recommended the role to me, knowing I had lots of ambition, wanted to do more and not stay in the same role for a long time. 

As my secondment was coming to an end, I was approached by the Transport Manager at Newhouse to land Colleague Code - he liked the way I presented myself, I was always really happy and cheery and knew I would be perfect. It was all about running sessions in depot to communicate the 4 Co-op behaviours. They wanted the information to land better, by having colleagues run the sessions, and used these sessions to land change on site.

Have you been involved in any other depot activities?

I studied interior design at college, so I love to be artistic. And although I haven't chosen to go down that route, I have been recognised for my love of design. I've also been able to get involved in different things in depot. I've painted murals in depot and helped decorate rooms - it's nice being able to do something outside of my day to day role, and also that the depot encourage colleague involvement too.

Opportunities to learn whilst working

In June 2023, I became a Transport Support Assistant and whilst that still is my home role, I've had the opportunity to join the Team Manager L6 apprenticeship programme. There has been a lot of learning, which has been like being back in high school, but I've loved the opportunity.

Unlike other depots, Newhouse have taken me out of role to do my apprenticeship. I've had the chance to travel around depots all over the country to get a better understanding across the whole network. I've learnt about other areas of the business which play a role in the Logistics operation. I've also spent time in stores and funeralcare homes which has been eye opening too, but given me a deep dive into other business areas too. It's been brilliant, and it's given me the time to think through my next steps and where I want to take my career. 

Where do you want to take your career next?

Co-op is great for developing internal colleagues. I have a real passion for learning and development. I have learnt so much during the apprenticeship. I would love to share my knowledge with colleagues and guide them in the right direction. Whether that's developing and supporting colleagues as a Team Manager, or working in learning and development. Funnily enough, my Dad used to be a Transport Manager, so I feel I already have some knowledge in that area from quite a young age!