Walid’s Career Journey at Primark
Hi, I’m Walid and I’m an Assistant Store Manager at Primark. I’ve worked for Primark for over a decade and my journey has been filled with growth and opportunity. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me outdoors! I enjoy playing football and hiking. I've completed the Three Peaks Challenge in the UK and I'm always looking for my next adventure.
As an Assistant Store Manager my role is all about supporting people to be at their best. I work closely with managers and colleagues across the store, helping them achieve their goals while also encouraging them to stretch themselves and take on new challenges. One of the things I enjoy most is seeing people grow in confidence and capability. Sometimes, something as simple as recognising a great job can make a real difference to someone's day.
How I Progressed from a Part-Time Colleague to Assistant Store Manager at Primark
I studied Multimedia and Internet Technology at university and worked in a variety of temporary roles while I completed my studies. When I joined Primark, it was initially a part-time role, working three days a week.
At the time, I didn't realise just how many opportunities would be available to me.
Over the years, I progressed from a part-time colleague to Weekend Manager, then moved into a full-time management role. From there, I continued developing my skills and eventually became a Store Manager, a position I held for five years. After COVID, I made the decision to step back to focus on family commitments, and I returned to a role as an Assistant Store Manager.
Looking back, the journey has been incredible. Every step has given me the chance to learn something new, develop new skills and take on greater responsibility. What stands out most is that those opportunities are still there today.
What Management Opportunities Look Like at Primark
One of the things that has kept me motivated throughout my career is the level of trust and autonomy we're given.
At Primark, managers are encouraged to make decisions based on their local customers and the needs of their store. We aren't following a rigid blueprint – we're empowered to use our knowledge and experience to make a meaningful impact.
For example, I support managers in taking ownership of their own departments and thinking about them as their own businesses. Sometimes that means responding to trends or local customer demand. I've seen how ideas developed in one store can grow into something much bigger for the wider business. One example is a focus on ladies' sportswear that we did in our store, which proved so successful that it influenced an approach across Primark.
That's something quite special. Knowing that decisions made in your store can have a wider impact gives you a real sense of ownership and pride.
What It's Like Working in Retail Management at Primark
For me, the best thing about Primark is the people.
I've worked alongside colleagues from all over the world, each bringing their own experiences, perspectives and ideas. Being exposed to different cultures and ways of thinking has helped me grow both professionally and personally. It's a big part of what makes working here so rewarding.
No two days are the same, and that's something I genuinely enjoy. Retail can be fast paced, challenging and unpredictable, but that's where I thrive. I enjoy finding solutions, supporting teams and helping the business succeed, even in high-pressure situations.
Career Growth and Development in Retail Leadership at Primark
When I think about my career, there are certain moments that remind me just how much both I and the business have evolved.
I still remember the days when store management teams wore shirts and ties every day. To me, that represents a particular chapter in Primark's story and how the business has grown and adapted alongside its customers over the years.
The same can be said of my own journey. From joining part-time while studying at university to leading teams and managing stores, I've experienced first-hand the opportunities that are available when you're willing to learn, work hard and embrace new challenges.
If there's one thing I've learned, it's that your career path isn't always a straight line. Sometimes you move forward, sometimes you take a step sideways, but every experience helps you grow. At Primark, I've always felt supported to make those decisions and continue developing, whatever stage of life I'm in.
That's why, after all these years, I'm still excited about what comes next.
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