Career spotlight: Boots UK

Q: What made you choose to join your current employer?

For as long as I can remember Boots has been part of my life. It’s a big brand name, and it’s also one people really trust. But I think what inspired me to actually join the team was meeting the people who worked there on my first assessment day. Everyone was so passionate about the business. I knew I’d be working in a challenging environment, for an exciting, growing company.

Q: What is the basic function/purpose of your current role?

I make sure everyone in my team is working to our business plan. Of course there’s a lot of operational work involved like overseeing health and safety issues and employment legislation, but my main focus is our customers. I’m always talking with my team and looking for new opportunities and ways for us to deliver legendary customer care.

Q: How relevant were your qualifications to you getting the job?

I studied law, which may not seem very relevant (other than helping with employment legislation). But it’s the skills I picked up whilst completing my degree that have really helped me to succeed, rather than the degree itself. To give you a few examples, determination, focus and teamwork are all important, and knowing how to channel your passion into real achievement – that’s key.

Q: How big is the team in which you work?

During my time here, my team sizes have really varied. When I was the store manager in Mansfield I had responsibility for 125 people. Most of our work there was on the health and beauty side, so I also worked closely with third-party aspirational brands. I’ve also worked with pharmacy teams, which means building relationships with doctors and practice nurses to support them in delivering patient care. It’s a consultative approach and when you’re working in partnership like that you’re also learning all the time.

Q: How would you describe the working culture of your current employer?

At Boots UK, it’s about doing the right thing for our customers and for the team who work here. That means engaging and encouraging people to be their best. So, everything we do is about people, which is what makes Boots a brand you can feel really proud to be part of. We’re very aware that customers come to us for a reason and that’s something we’ll never lose sight of.

Q: What are your career aspirations for the future?

I’ve been privileged to learn so much here and to experience so many different areas already. In the future, I’d love to do something that involves passing on all my knowledge and experience to others. My ideal would be a role where I can train, develop and mentor people. That’s what I aspire to, but I’m open to anything.

Q: How close do you think that the general public’s view of your employer is to the reality?

Whenever I talk to people about Boots, I get the impression that they really trust the brand. That’s the reality, as well.

Q: Would you recommend your employer to a friend and if so, why?

Absolutely. A lot of people who work here grow up with the company because they get given so many opportunities to progress in different directions. For example, the in-store pharmacist at my current store started life here as a Saturday girl. With all the encouragement and training she’s been able to build a fantastic career. So if you’re looking for the chance to grow and learn, and enjoy a fast-paced work environment, you’ll find Boots UK a really rewarding career choice.