Operations Manager Review

My role consists of the day to day running of the shop. From working managing the colleagues, planning rotas, planning of operational tasks as well as managing customer expectations for the shopfloor and showroom sales. Managing 24+ colleagues all with different learning styles and different managing techniques that have to be understood.

I have learnt loads during my apprenticeship. Alot of things I learnt were around the people management. How to understand different learning styles, how to adapt my manager style to suit the colleagues, how to manage colleagues and emotions, I reflected alot on how I used to do things and how I now do them, and I am a completely different manager now. The skills I have learnt will keep me going for years to come!

I really enjoyed the programme. The course was aimed at the right level and was really informative and allowed a lot of reflection. I have always aimed to be the best version of myself and being helped through the reflection stages have been great and I have enjoyed the time throughout.

The structure was great. The only thing to be improved is the lack of face to face content, which I think would have helped me. The course was all online due to the fact of Covid19. Considering it was all online and all had to change quickly, the structure was great and it seemed well organised with checkpoints to hit every month.

Some managers have not be fully supportive during the apprenticeship but others have been really helpful and supportive. One manager didn't understand why I would want to go on an apprenticeship, and that was hard to work with. Others I have worked with however have been great have have given me the tools, time and support throughout. Wickes as a company really boosts and offers support throughout the apprenticeship.

The team who delivered the appreniceship was amazing. He was really helpful and always there to help. He pushed me when I needed pushing and also helped with the manager who weren't very helpful by trying to get them on board too. He spent time with me working through the process and got me ready for the exam at the end.

The qualification I have received has improved my skills as a manager and made it possible for me to manage people effectively. Before my apprenticeship I were aware of the key skills to manage, like emotional intelligence that help and give a key head up in terms of managing. The course has changed me to be a better manager.

We do not have any activities to get involved with unfortunately. We do have meetings every so often so that the managers can interact with each other. We also arrange in store nights of bowling and other activities between us to keep up the team bonding and have a break from work with everyone.

Yes

I work within the Wickes Part of TP, however the whole atmosphere of working within Wickes is great. It has people who genuinely care for each other and aim to be the best with each other. The way they run is a great company and that is felt throughout the ranks.

Be a part of the team. Learn, learn and keep on learning everyday. Always ask questions. Have a laugh whilst working hard to get jobs done. Be honest and open about mistakes/yourself. Just enjoy working, if you don't enjoy working, its not worth your time and effort. Ask for help if you need it :)