Sarah Williams, Department Manager, Dublin

Tell us about your career to date with the Brown Thomas Group
I started with Brown Thomas in 2009 working in Menswear. From there I went on to be the Michael Kors Brand Manager in Womenswear. I then was lucky enough to gain a place on the Retail Degree Programme, which is fully funded by the company, and I became a Trainee Manager in Childrens & Living. I have subsequently been promoted to Department Manager in Beauty.

What do you enjoy most about your job?
Working with people is what I love most about my job! The Beauty department is such a fast paced environment and every day is different. We encounter so many different people on a day to day basis and have a huge amount of interaction with my customer, my team and my colleagues. That is what I love most about my job.

How important is career development to you?
Career development is so important to me. Without the opportunities Brown Thomas have given me, I would not be where I am today in terms of my career. Brown Thomas have fully supported me in all my roles and put me forward for different projects. I have always felt valued within the business. There are so many training opportunities and courses that are delivered here that can help people to reach their full potential within their roles, and the company are extremely invested in developing talent from within.

What advice would you give to anyone considering a career with the Brown Thomas Group?
Go for it! It is an exciting, dynamic environment to work in and there are endless opportunities for those who are passionate about excelling in the retail industry.

What would you say is your greatest achievement whilst working here?
My greatest achievement to date would be becoming a Department Manager. Having started as a Sales Consultant, I never thought I would be where I am today, and I’m so glad the Brown Thomas Degree Programme has helped accelerate my career. Also, being part of the Ground floor project and opening our amazing new beauty hall in 2014 would have to be a highlight! We are so proud of the work that we have done to make the opening a success. We worked as one, delivered our best and hopefully have delighted our customers!