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Retail Business Environment

Notes Careers at Harrods
Harrods ensures there is a clear career path for any employee, from any background.
Three key levels in Harrods are the sales employee, department managers and senior
managers. At each level, employees can benefit from Harrods development programmes
in order to build a career.

James is a Sales Associate and one of Harrods first Sales Degree students. When an injury
prevented him from following his previously chosen career in contemporary dance, he
applied to Harrods. He has never looked back. Harrods training has given him transferable
skills. He has been able to work within more than one department, providing the same
high levels of customer experience.
‘The course is absolutely fantastic. I feel very privileged to be on it. It is very much focused
on work-based learning. It provides real insight into consumer psychology and behaviour
- why people do what they do and how they shop - and how to deal with challenging
situations. My managers are very supportive. If I need to take some time out during the
day to make notes on an interesting situation, then I can. It has offered some amazing
opportunities, such as giving me behind-the-scenes information on how Harrods works
and increasing my awareness of its global influence. I have realised that Harrods offers
great benefits, good conditions and an opportunity to work amongst fantastic people.’
James said.
James will complete his BA Honours in 2012. He believes that the qualification will
provide the additional skills he needs before he steps up to the next level at Harrods.
James now expects his future to be with Harrods.
Amber’s application was successful because of the customer skills she was able to bring
from previous experiences. She is now the Retail Manager of Childrenswear. Here well as
upholding the Harrods standards of service. By taking advantage of the Harrods
Management Programme, Amber has risen to a better paid and more responsible job.
‘Retail is a challenging environment but I find it exciting. Although the company aims to
hire the right people for the job in the first place, there is a whole range of training
available to ensure we are equipped with key skills, for example, brand training for all the
different ranges we offer. Harrods promotes the view that all employees should manage
themselves responsibly and take advantage of opportunities offered.’ Amber defines.
Sabrina joined Harrods 10 years ago as a part-time Sales Associate whilst studying for her
degree. After graduating she worked in Human Resources (HR) and, with Harrods support,
gained further qualifications. This led to a series of promotions and experience in other
roles including Business Manager. Her current role is Head of Personal Shopping, managing
a team of 50 people. Personal shopping is about creativity and exceptional service. Her
role requires strong organisational skills, commercial understanding and practical and
strategic thinking. Sabrina’s experiences at Harrods shows how diverse a career in the
retail environment can be.
‘Knowing that my senior managers recognised my ability and supported me in my career
development has made me eternally loyal to the company. Before coming to Harrods I
hadn’t really considered a career in retail, now I can’t imagine working anywhere else.
The thing I enjoy most about working at Harrods is that every day is unique and the work
is interesting and innovative.’ Sabrina defined.

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