Kate Moore
Employer: Tesco
Area of work: Store management
Qualifications: MA social policy and sociology, University of Edinburgh
I worked part time for Tesco while I was at university, which gave me an excellent insight into the fast-paced and exciting world of retail. I decided to apply for the store management programme because I knew it would provide me with different challenges each day and stretch me both personally and professionally.
My role
My training focuses on developing my technical abilities and leadership skills so I can lead, manage and develop people to exceed our customers’ expectations. On a day-to-day basis I work through technical training packs, guided by the in-store management team, and work alongside different departments to develop my understanding of the business. This can involve anything from ordering and displaying stock to ensuring we have the right hours and training plans in place to allow us to deliver a great shopping trip to our customers.
As a department manager I am responsible for delivering targets related to my people, the customer, financial budgets and operational measurements. It’s essential to be well organised and good at prioritising tasks, as well as remaining motivated and determined to succeed through coaching and developing my team. I work a 36.5 hour week, which is spread over five days including Saturdays. Retail is a 24/7 business so my work pattern shifts – I can start at 7.00 am on one day and at 1.00 pm the next.
Best and worst
The best bit about my job is working with people who, like me, are driven to succeed and want to go the extra mile. I’m proud when my department exceeds the sales target and my staff understand just how important their contribution is to the business. The worst bit is probably those early morning shifts… but at least I can still get home for Neighbours!
