Alicia, Operations Manager (Management Apprentice)

In April of last year I came over to work in the Bournemouth store to support them, and at the end I was offered a transfer to the Bournemouth store, and a promotion to Operations Manager within Wickes.I first found out about it after I was nominated by my store manager to take part in the apprenticeship scheme and after having all the information sent through it was an offer I definitely didn't want to turn down. It seemed like a well structured course with a recognised qualification at the end of it, and all this work would be included in my work day, so that mean no extra work to do at home unless I wanted to!

Even though I only joined the scheme at the end of January this year, I have found it to be a great experience, the first workshop I attended was fantastic and my facilitator was really friendly and informative, he made the session fun and I really feel as though I took a lot back with me. 

I loved the workshop, It was great to have the pre-work brought to life and to be able to share ideas with people who are also attending the course.  I am most looking forward to putting my learning into practice and using different techniques to develop myself. 

Also, i’m looking forward to attending more workshops.The main challenge for me is going to be making sure I have the time to complete all my coursework to a good standard while also making sure I fulfil my role as Operations Manager and don’t neglect my store or colleagues.

I would always recommend people to join Wickes because all of of the opportunities I have been given by the company. It also has a great ethic towards the environment, health and safety, colleague and customer welfare. 

I have always had proper training to do my job safely and properly and I have always had the support of my colleagues in and across branches and the help and support from my store manager is fantastic.