Day-to-day life in my role is incredibly busy; there’s never a dull moment. Our operation runs 24/7 and things can change very quickly, so it can be challenging. My team and I are responsible for making sure the fleet is first and foremost legal, compliant, and roadworthy, but also as cost-effective as possible, ensuring we maintain high standards while delivering value for the business.

Being a woman in this industry has been a big part of my journey. I’m the first female workshop manager within the business, and of course that has come with its challenges because historically the industry has been very male dominated. But I truly believe that success comes down to hard work, determination, and passion for what you do, not whether you’re male or female. I work hard to achieve my goals and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made.

Betty’s Story

Betty works in one of our workshops and wanted to share her career story so far and why she continue to develop as a Vehicle Technician in the Partnership…

“I found the Partnership while looking for a career move and a fresh start. After previously holding several roles that never really felt right, I found myself wanting to start a career working on vehicles. After reading about the Apprentice Heavy Vehicle Technician role on the JLPJobs.com website, I knew it was the right fit for me.

From my very first day, the team has been incredibly supportive, always willing to help and share valuable knowledge to help me grow. The role itself has been incredibly rewarding. It’s hands-on, practical work where every day brings new and interesting challenges, which only makes me more eager to learn.

I can see myself having a long, exciting career within the Partnership with plenty of opportunities for both personal and professional growth. Overall, the Partnership is a great place to grow and be part of an incredible team. The skills I’m developing here will stay with me for the rest of my career, and I’m excited about what the future holds.”

Edward’s Story

I joined the Partnership on the 8th of September 2020 as a Customer Delivery Driver. Prior to that I had briefly worked in the Partnership as a Christmas temp at the Waitrose in Canary Wharf.

I initially applied because I wanted a change in career when it comes to being a delivery driver as I had previously worked as a courier/delivery driver for other reputable companies. Whilst browsing for jobs on the internet I browsed the JLP careers website & came across the customer delivery driver role.

I love what I do as I get to see different areas & meet different people. It’s also nice to have a chat with my customers whilst on the job.

I obtained my HGV licence entitlement through the Partnership’s Apprenticeship Scheme & although I love being a delivery driver I hope to be behind the wheel of the HGV’s again someday in order for my career to progress.

There are several benefits to working for the Partnership. Some of my favourites are the staff discount card, the on site Partner Shop (where I work) & our Partner Choice benefits website!

Back in 2020 I worked with a colleague who had the opportunity to be part of a photoshoot. I was always enquiring as to how she got into it. I always saw her picture at every branch around the country that I’d go into so when I saw the advert for the photoshoot I quickly applied.

I’m happy & grateful that I was chosen & I look forward to seeing myself & the other Partners’ photos around stores/in magazines/on the JLP website once they’re published. It was a great opportunity & I met an amazing set of people on the day. I would definitely do it again & would highly recommend anyone who’s thinking of doing it to just go for it.

Victor’s Story

As the name suggests, the John Lewis Partnership is more than just a regular job. It is a place I call home.

There are lots of things to love about the business – JLP’s unique business model absolutely stands out for me. As one of the largest employee-owned businesses in the UK, meaning its staff—Partners—have a stake in the company’s success, gives a sense of ownership and this can be a motivating factor to ensuring Partners give their best at all times.

As a Partner and also a customer, I know I can rely on John Lewis for premium products and expert advice. The “Never Knowingly Undersold” policy shows dedication to fair pricing and customer satisfaction.

I also appreciate the sustainability efforts. From responsible sourcing to eco-friendly initiatives, JLP takes real steps toward ethical consumerism. As someone who values intentionality in business, I respect companies that prioritize people and the planet.

There are no limits to what you can achieve within the Partnership. There are various opportunities for growth and career progression through courses available through the Partnership Academy (internal website). Also, the brand regularly seeks to expand and as such, create more opportunities in a vast array of fields.

Jerry’s Story

I had the opportunity to join the Partnership in 2010 working for the John Lewis Transport team based at Northampton. I was assigned a project to look at the Carbon Footprint of the Partnership and the vision for the future around its reduction. I delivered my findings 3 months later and took up a permanent role as a Project Manager working in Victoria (our old John Lewis Head Office).

This was a fantastic opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the Partnership and the challenges that retail was facing. Online shopping was very much in its infancy and the adaptation of our shops was just beginning. After several years in the Supply Chain Development Team I moved back to the Transport Team, now based at Magna Park, which is my current role.

I have been fortunate to work with some amazing Partners and I’ve taken the opportunity to be involved with many of the clubs and societies that align with my life outside work. This is something I have not taken for granted and have been able to involve my wife and children in activities that they may not have been able to do otherwise.

I should probably start by telling you how nervous I was being a young woman going into a predominantly male profession. I thought it would be difficult. However, my nerves were quickly settled when I met a Partner named Paul. He was so kind, showed me where to go and wished me the best of luck for my interview. And he’s not been the only one to look out for me here; there are so many that have helped me along the way.

When we first started the HGV Academy, we had a few days in the classroom learning about what the course would entail and the theory behind lorry driving. Many of us had never coupled or uncoupled a trailer before. We were starting from scratch and were taught all the key subjects including tachograph manual entries, safety checks and precautions to take.

When we moved into the training yard we got started straight away. The correct method of coupling and uncoupling was engraved into my mind, then a short while later a colleague of mine, Ross, and I were out driving, venturing into Newbury and learning the test routes. Over the course of the month, I had passed all our Class 1 tests and was partnered with a buddy. This is when we began to make our first store deliveries, becoming a professional Waitrose HGV Driver!

Up first was a delivery and collection to one of our shops in Wales. This really was an educational day from start to finish. Starting with the Operations Desk to receive keys, the store/collection and to download our driver cards, then onto vehicle safety checks. Afterward, you receive your trailer where you complete further safety checks and couple up.

Within this job you are constantly learning and improving. All the stores are different, so being able to adapt is key. It is so important that each manoeuvre carried out is safe; for you, your surroundings and any pedestrians nearby. We are taught to stop, get out and check if you have the slightest bit of doubt in the manoeuvre or surroundings. There is no shame in checking many times over, as every driver here knows, it’s not worth the chance!

Before long I was doing my restricted list assessment (these are stores deemed safe for you to visit independently whilst still building your confidence). Then after another assessment I was ‘set free’ to deliver to any store and visit any collection site.

From the very first day I was being pushed to be the best driver I could be. Socialising in the drivers rest room has been really beneficial. It really is like having an extended family! My confidence has been built through their advice with routes, stores, working and driving time directives and always being there to put a smile on my face after a not-so-good day, which does occasionally happen… it’s inevitable!

It is important to remember that the Transport Operators and Driver Mentors are only a call away, if you are in need of help. Along with maps provided with step-by-step instructions to the destination, pictures of the yard/key things to remember and a diagram of how to manoeuvre in the yard. Sometimes, even how to get out.

I have gained so much experience navigating a wide range of stores, reversing tight angles and learning the trailer fridge changes from diesel to electric. I am lucky enough to have been trained to use our double deck trailers after only a few months of driving. This allows me to take out the largest trailers we have on site independently, requiring more forward planning and consideration.

There are many drivers joining the Waitrose Partnership as HGV drivers through the Academy, and it is amazing to see their progression and confidence build. I am so thankful for the opportunities that have been provided and I have really enjoyed my time with Waitrose and my journey through the Academy.

I can’t wait to see where my career with Waitrose will lead to!

At the John Lewis Partnership, we want all of our Partners (employees) to find happier ways of working, like Alannah. Find out more about driving careers at Waitrose & Partners and the incredible benefits of being a Partner in the Partnership by exploring the rest of our careers website. 

There are lots of careers I’d love to see more women involved in. People are often shocked when I tell them I’m a lorry driver, you don’t see many women driving HGVs, but I think that makes the career all the more special.

I‘d say to other women, if you have a dream job that you want to pursue, just go for it. There’s so much support out there these days to help you achieve your career goals, including lots of government funded opportunities, like those available through Skills for Life.

Most people think that being out on the road for long hours must be quite lonely, but it isn’t for me I actually find it quite fun. I love listening to the radio and having a little sing a long on the road, it makes the time fly and always puts a smile on my face.

As a Partner at John Lewis Partnership you also receive benefits such as a discount at John Lewis and Waitrose, discounts at restaurants and access to Partnership hotels.

I am also now very pleased to have progressed into a new role as an Operational Compliance Trainer.

At the John Lewis Partnership, we want all of our Partners (employees) to find happier ways of working, like Julia. Find out more about driving careers at Waitrose & Partners or John Lewis and the incredible benefits of being a Partner in the Partnership by exploring the rest of our careers website. 

On my journey I have learnt the importance of good mentors and coaches and finding where I can truly belong and be my authentic self.

At the John Lewis Partnership, we want all of our Partners (employees) to find happier ways of working. Find out more about our commitment to our Partners, their careers and the incredible benefits of being a Partner in the Partnership by exploring the rest of our careers website.