Life at Next

Life at Next
  • 4.5 (6)
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  • Updated weekly

The Life at NEXT podcast bringing you all the inside knowledge and people focused stories about working at NEXT, one of the biggest retailers in the World. Get ready to look behind the curtain and hear from the people who are constantly evolving a brand that has traditionally been a high street retailer but is now a Ecomm and Distribution powerhose. Real people with real stories all with their Life at NEXT.

  1. 22 hr ago

    E138: Plastic vs Paper?

    Discover how we are moving sustainability forward at NEXT through data-driven packaging choices and international legislative compliance.Go behind the scenes with our Sustainability team at Head Office as we explore the vital role packaging plays across our entire global supply chain. In this episode of the Life at NEXT Podcast, Sustainability Manager Josh breaks down the nuances of material selection and the data required to eliminate recycling disruptors. Discover why swapping from plastic to paper isn't always a simple choice, how different European territories approach resource recyclability, and the ways our team collaborates with every area of the business to learn and evolve together.0:00 Introduction to Sustainability0:39 Putting in the Work Outside the Office2:46 Packaging Sustainability and Legislation4:11 Managing Supply Chain Materials5:16 Balancing Plastic vs Paper Choices6:45 Navigating Global Recycling Infrastructure8:10 Projecting Data: Red to Green Mapping11:49 Shifting Careers Into Retail18:10 Speed and Pace of Change at NEXT20:54 Working at the Head Office Campus24:09 Upcoming Environmental Legislation27:04 Championing Collaboration Across TeamsDon't forget to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to receive updates on everything Life at NEXT! 📣Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team 🚀 https://shorturl.at/EDfw9Follow us!Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnextTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnextFacebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnextLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext#LifeAtNEXT #LetsTakeItOn

    28 min

  2. 24 Jun

    E137: Growing Our Digital Future at NEXT

    Discover how the NEXT technology team grew from 300 to over 1,800 experts driving our global retail and website innovation. In this episode, we sit down with two members of our specialist technology team to explore the incredible evolution of their roles and the company culture that powers our digital growth. From our roots in traditional retail to managing a massive, sophisticated e-commerce platform, our teams are structured into dedicated technology groups. These groups support everything from warehouse logistics and product development to store technology and HR. We dive deep into our current initiatives, including how a centralised "ways of working" role is driving efficiency across departments. You will also learn how we use innovation days to rapidly prototype ideas, collaborate in person to solve complex problems and integrate AI as an enabler to automate administrative tasks. At NEXT, we champion an "attitude of taking it on" which fosters internal mobility, career progression and continuous learning. If you are looking to join a team that values your ideas, remember to always say "yes" to challenges and never be afraid to ask questions. 0:00 The NEXT Tech Evolution 1:15 Scaling From 300 to 1,800 Experts 3:40 How Our Specialist Technology Groups Structure Innovation 6:10 Collaboration and Shared Ways of Working 8:45 Using AI as an Enabler to Automate Tasks 11:20 Career Growth and Taking It On at NEXT Don't forget to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to receive updates on everything Life at NEXT! 📣 Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team 🚀 https://shorturl.at/EDfw9 Follow us! Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnext TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnext Facebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnext LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext #LifeAtNEXT #LetsTakeItOn

    34 min

  3. 17 Jun

    E136: Coding, AI and Tech Placements at NEXT

    Discover what it is really like to take on a tech placement at NEXT. From university applications to building real features, here is Hasham’s story.What does it take to stand out in a competitive tech industry?In this episode of the Life at NEXT podcast, we sit down with Hasham Shakir, a placement developer working within our e-commerce department. Hasham shares his journey of moving 4,000 miles to join us, his initial experiences with imposter syndrome, and how our collaborative culture helped him thrive.We explore how NEXT embraces AI as a tool to remove redundant tasks, the rapid pace of native app development, and why having an appetite to learn matters far more than knowing everything on day one.Whether you are preparing for university placement applications or curious about a career in technology, Hasham provides practical advice on taking on new opportunities and building confidence.0:00 The mindset needed for a tech placement1:03 Why choose a placement at NEXT?2:26 Introducing Hasham Shakir: Placement Developer3:20 Navigating a competitive job market4:42 An unbelievable interview coincidence5:42 How NEXT tests problem solving7:14 Overcoming imposter syndrome with team support9:07 Moving between iOS and e-commerce teams10:41 The campus culture at Enderby11:39 Winning the internal AI bake-off13:18 Discovering a passion for coding14:25 How NEXT uses AI to save time19:50 Adapting to a fast-paced retail industry22:37 Taking industry skills back to university24:00 Advice for future placement applicants25:25 Overturning perceptions of a retail brandDon't forget to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to receive updates on everything Life at NEXT! 📣Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team 🚀 https://shorturl.at/EDfw9Follow us!Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnextTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnextFacebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnextLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext#LifeAtNEXT #LetsTakeItOn

    27 min

  4. 10 Jun

    E135: Managing Photo Shoot Scale

    Discover what happens behind the scenes of homeware photoshoots at NEXT. In this episode, Studio Planning Lead Sarah shares her nine-year career journey.Sarah shares her experience moving from a Trainee Merchandiser to leading the planning for our major home brands at the Buzz Studio. She explains the massive scale of our studio operations, how we collaborate with partner brands like Laura Ashley and Cath Kidston, and why embracing change is the key to a happy career.0:00 Embracing change at work2:34 Meeting Sarah: Studio Planning Lead3:25 What it is like working in a creative photo studio3:48 Moving from merchandising to studio operations5:16 The scale of NEXT studio operations8:22 Managing our four distinct photo studios9:51 Shooting exclusive homeware collaborations11:47 Career advice on learning from mistakes16:01 How we manage licensing for global home brands21:15 Why the people make our culture successfulDon't forget to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to receive updates on everything Life at NEXT! 📣Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team 🚀 https://shorturl.at/EDfw9Follow us!Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnextTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnextFacebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnextLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext#LifeAtNEXT #LetsTakeItOn

    28 min

  5. 3 Jun

    E134: What Makes a Leader?

    Discover what it means to be a leader at NEXT. From studying psychology to managing team dynamics and presenting on internal video channels, explore a 14-year career journey built on growth and connection.What does it take to guide a customer service team in a fast-paced environment? In this episode of the Life at NEXT podcast, we sit down with a Customer Service Manager to discuss transferable skills, team development, and embracing digital tools like AI to enhance user experiences.Whether you are looking to take the next step in your management career or are curious about our workplace culture, discover how our teams use shared expertise to make an impact every day.0:00 The Mindset of a Leader0:51 From Psychology Degree to Customer Service1:42 An Unexpected Royal Meeting2:29 Applying Cognitive Psychology to Team Management4:14 Moving Up: Becoming a Customer Service Manager5:17 Presenting for Internal Communications (Team Talk)6:55 Overcoming Challenges and Learning from Mistakes8:33 Staying Organised in a Dynamic Environment10:09 Balancing Analytical Work with Arabic Grammar and Painting11:34 Developing Soft Skills with Canva and Coding12:46 Why I Am Proud to Work Here15:12 The Most Important Trait of a Manager16:03 Watching New Starters Thrive and Progress17:33 How Customer Support Technology Has Evolved19:12 The Balance of AI Tools and the Human Touch21:07 Reflecting on University and Life Lessons27:03 Career Advice for Your Next ChapterDon't forget to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to receive updates on everything Life at NEXT! 📣Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team 🚀 https://shorturl.at/EDfw9Follow us!Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnextTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnextFacebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnextLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext#LifeAtNEXT #LetsTakeItOn

    28 min

  6. 29 May

    E133: The Impact of Genuine Community Support

    In this episode, we sit down with Jo, our Charities Engagement Manager, to discuss the authentic and thoughtful approach to giving at NEXT. With a career spanning 20 years at the business, Jo provides a unique perspective on how we foster a culture of integrity and support.Jo shares how her team of four manages a wide range of initiatives, from local support for hospices in Leicester to international water projects for schools in Sri Lanka. We explore the significance of supporting our own colleagues in their personal fundraising efforts and how we utilise surplus stock to benefit clothing banks and community organisations.Discover how NEXT embraces a "no ego" philosophy, prioritising the needs of the charity and the community to ensure our contributions make a genuine, long term impact. Jo also discusses how the team is evolving, using new tools to handle administrative tasks so they can focus on what matters most connecting with and supporting people.Watch the full episode to hear more about Jo’s journey and the incredible work being done across our global communities.00:00 Authenticity and the no ego approach at NEXT00:45 Meet Jo Charities Engagement Manager01:12 Supporting local and global communities02:09 Building a supportive in-house community03:00 Why integrity matters in charity work04:33 Balancing national and local support05:38 Supporting the next generation06:56 Enabling colleagues to have a say in giving08:39 Giving beyond monetary donations09:54 Providing choice and quality in donations11:29 The community vibe across the business12:24 Support for colleague fundraising and challenges13:57 Using AI to increase charitable impact16:25 Jo's twenty year journey at NEXT18:10 The importance of company culture19:36 Connecting with people across the business23:16 Global projects and water for Sri Lankan schools26:58 Supporting through raffles and gifts in kind29:16 Jo's vision for the future of givingDon't forget to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to receive updates on everything Life at NEXT! 📣Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team 🚀 https://shorturl.at/EDfw9Follow us!Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnextTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnextFacebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnextLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext#LifeAtNEXT #LetsTakeItOn

    29 min

  7. 29 May

    E132: Driving Growth through Finance Transformation

    In this episode, we sit down with Phillip, our Group Finance Controller, to discuss his first six months at NEXT and the dynamic world of large scale corporate finance. Phillip shares his journey from training in London to leading a team of 17 at our Head Office, offering a transparent look at what it takes to manage the numbers for a growing global business.We explore the "roll your sleeves up" culture that Phillip discovered upon joining, where collaboration and collective success take priority over individual egos. Phillip provides fascinating insights into the complexity of international growth and navigating global tax and currency regulations. He also discusses NEXT’s major finance transformation project, including the implementation of new systems to drive better business insights.The conversation covers how the acceleration of AI and automation is removing mundane tasks, allowing our finance professionals to focus on work that truly adds value. Beyond the office, Phillip talks about balancing a high-level career with family life and finding the right support system in Leicestershire. Whether you're interested in the rigor of year end results or the human side of leadership, Phillip’s perspective highlights why finance at NEXT is about much more than just the bottom line.Watch the full episode to learn how we’re taking on the future of finance.00:00 The relentless pace of finance at NEXT01:36 Impact and rigor: The role of Group Finance02:46 Navigating the milestones of year-end results03:31 Phillip’s journey: From London to NEXT05:36 Why data and insight drive better business decisions07:36 A fresh perspective: Moving to Leicester for family09:59 The pride and unique culture of the NEXT team11:51 Global opportunities and the complexity of international growth14:16 Navigating different tax rules and currencies15:45 The finance transformation: Implementing new systems17:31 How technology has evolved from paper to digital18:50 The impact of AI and automation in finance21:02 The learning curve of building new relationships22:55 Combining long-term expertise with new ideas24:41 Leading and developing a team of 1727:30 The standout "roll your sleeves up" culture29:42 From small offices to the energy of Head OfficeDon't forget to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to receive updates on everything Life at NEXT! 📣Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team 🚀 https://shorturl.at/EvmwqFollow us!Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnextTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnextFacebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnextLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext#LifeAtNEXT #LetsTakeItOn

    31 min

  8. 29 May

    E131: How to Transition into a Creative Studio Career

    Join us for an inspiring conversation with Rosie, a Senior Studio Coordinator at NEXT, as she shares her unique journey from the world of performing arts to a thriving career in our creative studios. Rosie discusses the resilience required to navigate graduating during the pandemic and how she successfully transitioned her passion for performance into a dynamic role in marketing and logistics. Now six months into her 12 month contract, she offers a genuine look at the supportive culture at NEXT, the benefits of our Head Office nursery, and how she balances being a working parent while making a tangible impact on the business. Discover how Rosie uses her creative mindset to collaborate with photographers and stylists to produce world class imagery for our customers. 00:00 Life at NEXT: Small business vibe, big scale 01:33 Meet Rosie: Senior Studio Coordinator 02:11 From dance classes to performing arts college 03:33 Navigating a career shift during the pandemic 04:47 Transitioning skills from hospitality to marketing 05:58 Balancing a career and motherhood at NEXT 06:44 Finding the role on LinkedIn 07:46 Embracing a 12-month contract as an opportunity 09:17 Overcoming setbacks with a positive mindset 11:51 Maintaining personal passions 13:16 Authenticity and community culture at NEXT 15:56 Making an impact and up skilling 20:02 Collaboration in the creative studio 22:28 Life at Head Office and nursery benefits 25:54 Supporting working parents 28:54 Looking forward to the future at NEXT Don't forget to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to receive updates on everything Life at NEXT! 📣Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team 🚀 https://shorturl.at/oJ7sSFollow us!Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnextTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnextFacebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnextLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext#LifeAtNEXT #LetsTakeItOn

    30 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

The Life at NEXT podcast bringing you all the inside knowledge and people focused stories about working at NEXT, one of the biggest retailers in the World. Get ready to look behind the curtain and hear from the people who are constantly evolving a brand that has traditionally been a high street retailer but is now a Ecomm and Distribution powerhose. Real people with real stories all with their Life at NEXT.

Information

  • Creator
    Life at Next
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    137
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Life at Next
  • Show Website
    Life at Next