James
My name is James and I am the Commercial Manager at the Marble Arch store for home ware and children's wear.
I completed the Marks & Spencer Graduate Scheme in June 2005. When I completed the graduate scheme, I was appointed as lingerie and beauty manager in the Camberley store. After a further six months, I was appointed as the children's wear manager as well within the Camberley store. In January of this year, I was appointment as children's wear manager at Marble Arch, the flagship store, and then three weeks ago I was also given home ware as well. I am responsible for the overall running of both departments. I am in charge of a combined team of seven section managers and roughly about 50 members of staff. From day to day I have things to action from the head office, the messages that come through regarding policy and to driving sales. Within my role, I have to drive my team to make as much money as we can for both the store and the business.
In terms of career progression within Marks & Spencer, I think it is very good, considering that I joined the business in September 2004. I am now in the flagship store running two departments, I believe that there are great opportunities for career progression. We have got the management career path, which is something that I am currently on and measured against. We have also introduced a section management career path as well for our section managers. Working with our store management team and with the HR management team, it is a very clear career progression for individuals like myself.
In terms of ongoing development within my current role and future roles, I will meet with my general manager probably once a month to have constructive feedback about where I am going, what I am doing well and what I need to improve on. Also, I will get it day to day through either him or some of the head office visitors that we have. We have people coming around to see how we are getting on, so that I feel supported. Currently as a commercial manager, my role is centred around communication, implementation and influencing. My desire would be to move into something more strategic.
My aim would be that within five years to be working with either the buying or merchandising department, probably within women's wear, working my way up to becoming a merchandiser or a buyer. My aim within ten years is to be a business unit director.
For new graduates that are starting this year, I would urge them to manage from day one and go in the store or the head office as though you were a manager. Also, use the huge support structure that is within the stores; also use your store colleagues to assist you further. You have got to remember that with any one store, you have got people that have been in the business for 15 to 20 years and they know a lot. Be honest, be confident, and only go into this role if you truly love retail. I would also urge people to think about their commitment towards Marks & Spencer in terms of hours, you will be on your feet all day and working weekends.
The level of responsibility you are given at a relatively young age and the training you will receive is second to none and it is the best on the high street.
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