Life at Next

This week we were joined by Rebecca, a Team Leader for NEXT Finance systems to share her journey from team member to manager in the world of tech, sharing real insights and tips for anyone stepping into leadership roles. Hear firsthand experiences on tackling new responsibilities, building team connections, and embracing confidence as a leader. Subscribe for more episodes with inspiring stories from the NEXT team! 00:00 Intro 00:30 Becky’s Role at NEXT 01:15 Managing Payment Systems at NEXT 02:10 Early Days and Career Path 02:55 University and Cybersecurity Background 04:05 Choosing a Hands-On Field of Study 05:00 Internship Experience at Next 06:00 Discovering Career Opportunities Through Internships 07:10 Career Evolution within NEXT 08:20 Why People Stay at NEXT 09:00 The Many Roles within NEXT's Tech and Retail Departments 09:45 Building a Career Through Internal Growth 10:30 Continued Work During University 11:20 Transition from Placement to Full-Time Role 12:05 Becoming a Manager 13:00 Mentorship and Internal Promotion Culture at Next 13:40 Long-Term Growth at NEXT 15:00 Adjusting to Management Responsibilities 16:12 Balancing Awareness Without Micromanagement 17:25 Communicating Upwards with Confidence 18:30 Favourite Aspects of Management 19:43 Team Size and Onboarding Challenges 20:48 Learning and Explaining Company-Specific Systems 22:00 Adapting Internal Communication for Clarity 23:12 Advice for New Starters: Ask and Listen 24:40 Reflecting on Active Listening and Its Importance 25:50 Early Management Growth 27:03 Leaning on the Team’s Knowledge 28:15 Building a Supportive and Collaborative Team Culture 29:12 Final Thoughts on Management Progression 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more podcast episodes from NEXT! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnext TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext

This week we were joined by former soldier, Farhat, as he shares his powerful story of service, resilience, and transition into a tech career at NEXT. 00:00 Intro 0:55 The Role of Network Security & Connectivity 1:30 Keeping Access Secure for Internal & External Users 2:10 Daily IT Challenges & Handling Access Requests 3:00 Journey to Working in Technology & Networking 3:45 Early Inspiration from Family in Telecommunications 4:15 Transition from Army Communications to Civilian IT 5:05 Joining NEXT as a Temp & Moving to Security 5:40 Navigating Job Changes Post-Military Service 6:20 Adjusting Military Skills for Civilian Work 6:55 Challenges of Moving from Military to Civilian Roles 7:25 Process of Army to Civilian Life Transition 8:05 Reflections on Eight Years in the Army 8:35 Differences in Army and Civilian Work Environments 9:10 Joining NEXT in Security and Moving to Networks 9:50 How NEXT Supported Career Progression in IT 10:30 Reasons for Staying at Next for Over 14 Years 11:05 The Power of Workplace Culture & Community 11:50 Farhat’s Path from Sri Lanka to UK Army 12:00 Challenges of Service 15:05 Honouring Fallen Soldiers 16:00 Supporting Veterans and Charities 18:20 The Importance of Mental Health Support 19:00 Staying Connected to Service Members 20:00 Career Path at NEXT 23:00 Advice for Joining NEXT

This week we were joined by Akiel, a Stylist at NEXT to talk about his role, overcoming self-doubt, and embracing new challenges. 0:00 Intro 0:55 Meeting Each Other for the First Time 2:20 Basketball & Height Perspective 3:30 Moving from Competitive to Recreational Basketball 5:05 Personality in Work Environments 6:45 Keeping Calm in Fast-Paced Environments 7:50 Journey to Becoming a Stylist 9:10 Early Fashion Experiences at Leicester’s WorldGosh Store 10:40 The Buzz of Styling 12:00 Gaining Confidence and New Skills in Styling 13:00 Scaling Up from Independent Store to Big Retail 14:20 Coordinating for NEXT's Menswear Department 15:45 Career Advice: Speaking Up with Confidence 16:00 Introversion and Imposter Syndrome 17:15 Experiencing Imposter Syndrome in Different Roles 18:30 Embracing Challenges in Employer Branding 19:40 Maintaining Excitement in Evolving Roles 20:45 Constant Improvement and Director Feedback 21:35 Balancing Ambition with Appreciation for the Present 22:30 The Value of Being Present 23:15 Seeking Opportunities in the Workplace 24:15 Building New Initiatives 25:10 Relationship Building and Knowledge Growth 25:50 Memories of Early Technology and Internet 27:00 Comfort Zones and Growth 28:10 Handling Setbacks and Remaining Adaptable 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more podcast episodes from NEXT! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnext TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext

In this episode, we sat down with Kate, Data Operations Manager at NEXT, as she shares her incredible 15 year journey with us. From managing the iconic NEXT Directory to moving into the world of E-commerce and branded operations, Kate dives into her experiences across multiple departments. 0:00 Introduction to Kate 0:30 Kate’s Role in the Business 1:12 The Critical Role of Data Operations 2:06 Starting with the NEXT Directory 3:15 The Evolution of NEXT Directory 4:20 Transitioning from Print to E-commerce 5:30 The Shift to E-commerce: Fast-Paced and Exciting 7:01 Moving into Branded Operations 7:52 Skills for Success: Planning and Process Optimisation 9:10 Thriving on Process Improvement 10:03 Challenging and Growing New Processes 11:36 Growth in the Branded Division 12:22 The Importance of Data in Product Listings 14:01 Onboarding and Optimising Brand Products 15:06 Collaboration with E-commerce Teams 16:23 Career Flexibility at NEXT 18:10 The Importance of People and Relationships at NEXT 19:20 Advice for Those Considering a Career at NEXT 21:08 Exciting Growth Opportunities for NEXT Brands 22:35 Leveraging AI and Automation in Branded Operations 25:01 Automation for Accuracy and Efficiency 27:20 Reflecting on the Journey from Print to E-commerce Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnext TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext

This week on the Life of Next Podcast we are joined by Georgia, to talk about her journey from a Trainee Merch to a Trainee Buyer. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more podcast episodes from NEXT! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnext TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext #LifeatNEXT #podcast #podcasts #podcasting #podcaster #podcasting

This week we are joined by Praise, Online Ordering Developer and member of our Employee-Led Community, Unity, to talk to us about the important conversations happening around the company during Black History Month, and how we're highlighting the amazing contributions of our colleagues across the business. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more podcast episodes from NEXT! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnext TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext

This week on the Life at NEXT podcast, Matt sits down with Lee, a Menswear Art Director at NEXT, to dive into his inspiring career journey. Lee shares how a two-week job moving boxes led him to his dream role as a creative leader at NEXT. In this episode, they discuss his creative inspirations, managing OCD in the workplace, and NEXT's exciting plans to launch a men's mental health group in Leicester. Tune in for an insightful conversation about career growth, mental health, and the world of fashion design at NEXT! 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more podcast episodes from NEXT! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnext TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext #LifeAtNEXT #podcast #podcasts #podcasting #podcaster #podcasting #MenswearArtDirector #CareerJourney #CreativeInspiration #MentalHealthAwareness #FashionCareers

In this episode of the Life at NEXT podcast, we sit down with Theresa, a passionate Financial Controller at NEXT, to discuss her inspiring journey in the world of finance. 🎙️ Theresa shares insights into her career, what it’s like working at NEXT, and her love for numbers and financial strategy. 💼✨ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more podcast episodes from NEXT! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatnext/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext #podcast #podcasts #podcasting #podcaster #podcasting

Join us for a special podcast episode from the NEXT Home Away Day, featuring exclusive guests from the home interiors industry! Get insider tips, expert advice, and inspiring ideas as we dive into everything home decor, design trends, and styling tips. Whether you're revamping your space or looking for fresh inspiration, this episode is packed with insights from industry pros. Don't miss out on the latest trends in home interiors, and the latest products from NEXT! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatnext/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext Panel Guests: https://www.instagram.com/la_sidhu/ https://www.instagram.com/lemonsandlucy/ https://www.instagram.com/mo.and.the.jungle.shelf/ https://www.instagram.com/noni.ware/?hl=en-gb

This week on the Life at NEXT podcast, Matt is joined by Liz, a Product Legislation Manager at NEXT. Together, they discuss the sustainable practices and initiatives driving our business forward. From reducing our carbon footprint to sourcing ethical materials, Matt and Liz discuss the tangible steps NEXT is taking to achieve our environmental goals and the future of sustainability within the fashion industry. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more podcast episodes from NEXT! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatnext/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext #podcast #podcasts #podcasting #podcaster #podcasting

In this weeks episode of the Life at NEXT Podcast, Matt sits down with Alfie, one of our ambitious retail apprentices at NEXT. Alfie shares his journey from day one as a new apprentice working the NEXT sale, to becoming an integral part of the team. He talks about the skills he's learned, the challenges he's faced, and how the apprenticeship has shaped his career aspirations. Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatnext/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext

In this week's episode, we were joined by Ellie, an assistant buyer for NEXT Home, to talk about her journey from trainee to assistant and what life is like working on our famous home products! Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share to stay updated with our latest episodes! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatnext/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext

In this episode, we are joined by Alicia, an Ecommerce Campaigns Lead, who shares her incredible journey from the aisles of retail to the exciting world of marketing at the NEXT Head Office. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share to stay updated with our latest episodes! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatnext/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext

On this weeks episode, Claire shares her insightful journey with the Sunflower Lanyard program and how it has positively impacted her life within the Able at NEXT community. Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatnext/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext

On this weeks episode, we were joined by Libby an Early Careers recruiter, to ask her for tips and tricks when applying for a role at NEXT! Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share to stay updated with our latest episodes! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatnext/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnextFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeatnextLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext

We're diving into the exciting world of athleisure with a spotlight on SELF, the innovative new brand from NEXT. In this special episode, we were joined by Dominique and Charlotte to talk about the brand and how NEXT is looking to diversify its product portfolio and tap into a new market.  Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share to stay updated with our latest episodes!  Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatnext/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext

In this episode, we sat down with Eleanor, an ambitious and passionate Trainee Merchandiser who made the bold decision to leave university early and dive headfirst into her dream career at NEXT. Don't forget to subscribe to stay updated with our latest episodes! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatnext/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext

🎙️ In this weeks episode, we sat down with Carl, our Senior Financial Controller, to delve into the details of the NEXT Total Platform and discuss how we're experiencing remarkable growth as a business. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share to stay updated with our latest episodes! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatnext/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext #podcast #podcasts #podcasting #podcaster #podcasting

In this episode, we are joined by Andy, a Merchandising Manager on Womenswear at NEXT. Andy's journey is nothing short of inspiring, starting from the shop floor of a NEXT retail store and climbing his way up to the head office. Andy shares his unique experiences and challenges in the world of retail and merchandising. From his early days dealing with customers and stock in the store to making strategic decisions that shape the future of NEXT's product lines, Andy's story is a testament to hard work, passion, and the power of seizing opportunities at NEXT. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share to stay updated with our latest episodes! Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team → https://careers.next.co.uk/ Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatnext/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext #podcast #podcasts #podcasting #podcaster #podcasting

In this special Pride Month episode, Matt sits down with Andrew, the Head of HR for Retail and the Chair of the Pride at NEXT employee-led community. Andrew shares his personal journey, insights on the role of the Pride at NEXT community, and the initiatives that NEXT is undertaking to support LGBTQ+ employees. We discuss the impact of creating a safe and welcoming environment where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work, and how this ethos contributes to the overall success and culture at NEXT. Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, this episode is a celebration of pride, unity, and the power of being you 🏳️‍🌈