B&Q Department Supervisor Films

The departmental supervisor works directly for the trading manager and within that structure that means that they're working closely together, they're provided with an extra level of support and they get all of the progression and support that a trading manager would do. This has meant that when they then go on to become a trading manager they've got a great background and wealth of experience of how to perform that role and it's also provided the colleagues in the store a smaller step towards becoming a trading manager in a large format store. This has improved the customer experience by giving us a seven day a week cover so for every trading day I've got either a trading manager or a supervisor leading their department. This means that they can lead the interaction with the colleagues, engage the team but also serve the customer better so they provide a better level of support, better level of availability and ensure that the customer experience in store is really strong.

But also improves the experience in the day-to-day operation of the store because I've got an extra level of line management. So if I've got a question, need a level of support, need a level of coaching, a level of development, anything that I need on a day-to-day basis, I haven't got a wait for my line manager, I've got a departmental supervisor who can help me and support me in the key aspects of the role. It also supports induction of new starters so if I'm new to the business I've got an extra level of support there to help me through my induction period. The store has benefited through the supervisor role with the trading managers really leading at the right level and the progression plan in store has been fantastic for colleagues wanting a career in B&Q.

So when I went into the position it was very challenging but that's what made me progress higher. I got support from a lot of people including the unit manager and made me go further and further my career. I get the support that I need from the trading manager and it also helps me develop and grow within my role. So we've done lots in store to support the departmental supervisors.

We've gone through the Watton Howe for a trading manager, we've been through the Watton Howes for a supervisor and we've really worked closely with them with the trading manager to support their development into that role. However I'm really excited about the apprenticeship program. I think this is going to take it to a whole new level. This is a really key group of people who want to be progressive in our business, learn, grow and continue to develop themselves.

So to give them some bespoke training that's specific and homes in on their needs and requirements is going to really grow this to take it to a whole new level. Being department supervisor has given me a lot of opportunities to grow within my role. I would definitely recommend my colleagues to gain the experience that I've done moving step by step and moving into a trading manager or logistics role.