MEET THE TEAM
Alana
Career Snapshot
Ten years ago, I returned to work after having kids and joined The Warehouse Tauranga Crossing as a part-time Nightfill Team Member, working just one shift a week. Within nine months I was running Nightfill, and from there I progressed into Trading 2IC and Trade Manager roles across Papamoa and Fraser Cove. Ten years after starting with one nightfill shift a week, I am now Store Manager of Warehouse Stationery Tauranga, and thats a journey I'm incredibly proud of.
Day in the Life
There probably isn't really a typical day and that's one of the things I enjoy most about the role. A day can include everything from working alongside the team & interacting with customers, completing audit and compliance requirements, working stock or planning next moves and changes we need to make around the store.
My role also takes me outside the four walls of the store. Building relationships with local schools and businesses is something I really enjoy, because it connects us with our community while also creating opportunties for the store.
No two days are exactly the same, and I think that's what keeps the role interesting.
What is your favourite part of your job?
For me, its 100% the people. I enjoy the results and I love the challenge of figuring out how we're going to get there but the best part is seeing people develop along the way.
There is nothing better than watching someone gain confidence, step into something new or take ownership and realise "I can do this!". I've had plenty of people throughout my own career who have backed me, challenged me and given me opportunities, so being able to do that for someone else is pretty special.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to do what you do?
Don't be afraid to ask for help or take advice. I've leaned on plenty of people throughout my own journey but I've learnt to take that guidance and shape it into something that works for me, my team and my store.
Why do you love working with The Warehouse Group?
For me, what sets TWG apart is that you're encouraged to bring yourself to work. There isn't one type of person or leader who can succeed here. You're able to take what you learn from others, make it your own and bring your own personality and strengths to the role.
What have you enjoyed most about the Evolve leadership programme.
What I've enjoyed most about Evolve is having the opportunity to focus on myself for a change. As a Store Manager so much of my energy naturally goes into my team, my store and what needs to happen next so having dedicated space to step back and look at myself as a leader has been incredibly valuable.
What is your favourite TWG benefit?
The staff discount and grocery bonus discount days are definitely great perks but the one I've really come to appreciate is long-service recognition.
After being with TWG for 10 years, I love that there is still recognition for the time, effort and commitment you've given to the business. Reaching those long-service milestones and having them acknowledged make you feel like the years you've invested haven't just blended into the background.
