My career journey from Customer Team Member to Operations Manager

Matt shares the linear journey he’s taken to becoming an Operations Manager, what he’s learned along the way, and a message to colleagues in stores wondering how to get there too.

I joined Co-op in 2008 as a Customer Team Member. I wasn’t initially planning a career in retail but once I could see a path to progress, something clicked. I realised there was a lot I could learn, more responsibility I could take on, and real impact I could make for customers and colleagues.

I’ve followed a very linear career path: Customer Team Member > Team Leader > Team Manager > Store Manager > Operations Manager. People often talk about “squiggly” careers - and that’s great for many – but a linear pathway has been a real strength for me, and I know many colleagues in our business area will feel the same.

What I’ve learned along the way

Every role taught me something I now use to support my stores and teams. That step-by-step progression helped me build industry experience, strong operational foundations and leadership capability that I still rely on today. And despite keeping it linear, the variety in our roles meant I gained a broad mix of experience - risk and health & safety, property maintenance, commercial awareness, colleague development and more.

I’ve been an Operations Manager for six years now, and I still enjoy the variety and the constant change. Every day brings a chance to learn something new and to push my capability a little further.

What motivates me

The most rewarding part of my role is leading and developing Store Managers. Seeing someone grow - sometimes faster than they thought possible - never gets old. Good leadership can change how people feel about themselves and what they believe they can achieve. We have some wonderful colleagues and teams at Co-op and I’m really proud of the difference they make to store standards, colleague development and performance.

My message to colleagues

If you’re reading this in a store today, know you absolutely can progress to Store Manager, Operations Manager and beyond. Whatever level you’re at, believe in your potential. If you’re looking to grow and develop your career, be open to learning, stepping into new opportunities and make sure you’re building on the foundations you already have.

— Matt