Life at Next

Life at Next
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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. 3d ago

    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

  2. May 29

    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

  3. May 29

    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

  4. May 29

    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

  5. May 29

    E130: Why Pushing Your Comfort Zone Works

    n this episode of the Life at NEXT Podcast, we explore the extraordinary 25 year journey of our Visa and Sponsorship Partner, Stuart. From his early days as a part time office cover in one of our first stores to becoming an expert in international recruitment and compliance, Stu's story is a masterclass in building a non traditional career within a dynamic global brand.You can expect to hear insights on how to navigate a fast paced environment, the benefits of choosing an apprenticeship over higher education, and the realities of leading a business through global expansion. Stuart also shares his thoughts on the importance of pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and why a long term career is about constant evolution rather than standing still. 00:00 - Career Pace at NEXT00:46 - Adapting to Change01:58 - Defining Employer Brand03:03 - Marketing Career Journey04:10 - Higher Education Perspectives05:45 - Choosing Retail Operations06:24 - Starting in Stores07:35 - Early Retail Progress08:39 - Identifying Career Paths09:52 - Visa and Sponsorship10:48 - Navigating Global Compliance12:44 - Continuous Professional Learning13:53 - Advice for Families15:51 - Apprenticeship Value Today17:39 - Moving into Audit19:47 - Right to Work21:30 - Learning From Experts22:40 - Managing Daily Workloads23:20 - Commuting and Mindset27:38 - Reflecting on 25 Years30:01 - Pushing Comfort ZonesDon'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/X2FmbFollow us!Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnextTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnextFacebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnextLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext#LifeAtNEXT #LetsTakeItOn

    31 min

  6. Apr 29

    E129: Is Merchandising Guesswork?

    Predicting the future of fashion is about more than just trends. Join Matt as he interviews Charlotte to discover the "nerdy" science behind merchandising at NEXT. Merchandising is the art of having the right stock in the right place at the right time. In this episode of the Life at NEXT podcast, Charlotte shares insights from her 11-year career, from "crying over a sewing machine" during her A-levels to managing global supplier relationships in Bangladesh and Egypt. At NEXT, our merchandisers are integral members of the product team, working nine months in advance to bring a garment to life. ⏰ Discover how we use sales analysis and technical expertise to ensure our denim collections resonate with customers worldwide. 00:00 The "guesswork" of merchandising 02:40 Fast-paced sales analysis 05:18 Moving from textiles to data 08:42 Life on the Leicester Head Office campus 11:51 Travel: Best sushi in Bangladesh 14:12 Building supplier relationships 23:19 The "nerdy" details of denim 26:52 Advice for future merchandisers 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://careers.next.co.uk/?utm_source=Organic+Social+&utm_medium=YouTube&utm_campaign=Podcast_E128 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

    28 min

  7. Apr 22

    E128: Ella's Logistics Management Graduate Journey at NEXT

    Discover what it is really like to join the NEXT Graduate Scheme. Follow our Logistics Management Graduate as she shares her first six months in HR and distribution.In this episode of the Life at NEXT podcast, we explore the transition from university to a career in logistics. Ella shares how she navigated over 40 applications to secure one of five spots on this tailored two year program.We deep dive into:🚀The rotating functional areas within HR Services and recruitment.🚀The importance of company culture and the mentorship program.🚀A look behind the scenes of the "Know Your Network" scheme, from international hubs to loss prevention.00:00 Introduction to Logistics at NEXT 01:41 The Graduate application journey 02:52 Transitioning from Uni to work life 05:31 Standing out: 750 applicants for 5 roles 10:34 Rotating across H.R. departments 17:42 The NEXT mentorship program 27:05 Advice for future graduatesDon'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://careers.next.co.uk/?utm_source=Organic+Social+&utm_medium=YouTube&utm_campaign=Podcast_E128Follow us!Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnextTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnextFacebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnextLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext#LifeAtNEXT #LetsTakeItOn

    29 min

  8. Apr 15

    Special: How to Launch a Career in Fashion Buying & Merchandising

    Discover what it takes to launch a career in one of the UK’s most renowned graduate trainee schemes! 🎓In this episode of the Life at NEXT Podcast, we sit down with Fiona and Jess from the Product Academy to explore opportunities in Buying, Merchandising, Design, and Technology.We delve into how NEXT supports trainees through a structured 12 month programme designed to help you excel, regardless of your background. Whether you are a geography graduate, a school leaver, or considering a career pivot, our academy provides the tools to build your expertise in a business that never stands still.Join us to find out how you can make an impact and push the boundaries of your career!00:00 Intro01:13 What is the NEXT Product Academy? (Graduate Trainee Scheme)02:32 Meet the Team: Learning & Development Roles at NEXT03:03 AI for Product: Transforming Efficiency in Fashion04:44 The Purpose of the Academy: Building a Foundation of Excellence05:53 Diversity in Recruitment: Why You Don’t Need a Fashion Degree07:31 Fiona’s Career Story: From Store Staff to Training Manager09:17 Beyond Process: Training Soft Skills and Resilience11:00 Jess’s Background: Transitioning from Charity to Retail Training12:01 Levelling the Playing Field for Design and Tech Trainees13:00 What is a Technologist? Garment Fit, Aesthetics, and Quality14:42 Industry Leading: Why NEXT Training is the Gold Standard15:51 Retention and Culture: Why People Stay at NEXT for Decades17:09 A Structured Pathway to Success: Month 1 to Promotion18:18 The "Lightbulb Moment": What Drives a Learning Specialist?19:18 From University Lecturer to Product Academy Manager21:11 Training AI: Overcoming the Fear of New Technology22:22 Innovation and Gaps: Never Standing Still in Training23:30 Terminology and Jargon: Breaking Down Industry Barriers25:40 Know Your Learner: Tailoring the Approach to Gen Z26:24 The Knowledge Confidence Matrix: Tangible Growth29:51 The Impact of AI: Freeing Up 4 Hours for Creativity32:00 Is AI a Threat? Why AI Has "No Taste"34:00 Behavioural Shifts: Moving from Google Search to Generative AI36:47 Curiosity: The Spark That Lifts the Business39:20 Advice for Students: Why Anything is Possible at NEXT41:14 The Power of Resilience: Dealing with Failure in FashionDon'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://careers.next.co.uk/?utm_source=Organic+Social+&utm_medium=YouTube&utm_campaign=Podcast_Special_EC Follow us!Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnextTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnextFacebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnextLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext#LifeAtNEXT #LetsTakeItOn

    43 min
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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
    133
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Life at Next
  • Show Website
    Life at Next