Marks & Spencer Ireland is celebrating four colleagues at its Grafton Street store as they mark 25 years with the retailer.
M&S is marking the milestone in recognition of the hard work by Brenda Burke, Angela Bradley, Gillian Lockhart and Vivian McSweeney.
As part of its ongoing commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture and acknowledging the individual contributions of its staff, M&S is highlighting these colleagues who have helped deliver excellence for Irish customers.
Commenting on the milestone, M&S Grafton Street’s store manager Steven Cummins said, “The success of M&S Grafton Street is due to the hard work of our incredible store colleagues who consistently go above and beyond for our customers every day.
“M&S is fortunate to have a loyal and often long-serving workforce, and I’m delighted to acknowledge Brenda, Angela, Gillian and Vivian for reaching the impressive 25-year milestone.”
Brenda And Angela
Brenda Burke – a senior sales advisor originally from Finglas – started working with M&S 28 years ago, after kicking off her retailer career at Mirror Mirror seven years previously.
A denim expert, she started out as a store manager at the Grafton Street store, and now manages stock levels as well as online orders.
Crediting her colleagues and managers – particularly floor manager Rebecca and store manager Steven – Brenda speaks fondly of her years at the store.
She said, “The support from my colleagues has been invaluable, and the friendships I’ve made mean everything to me.”
Angela Bradley from Coolock has worked with M&S for over 25 years, starting as a part-time sales advisor in the food department and witnessing many changes across the years.
She values the supportive work environment, in addition to strong relationships with colleagues and customers, helping her balance work with her family and her passion for marathon running.
Angela said she finds retail a rewarding career, adding, “The connections I’ve built here make this job truly fulfilling.”
Gillian And Vivian
Gillian Lockhart started off as a part-time sales assistant and over the years has risen through the ranks to her current role as the food section manager at the Grafton Street store.
She has played a key role in the retailer’s growth, particularly by training staff in Amsterdam for six months.
Gillian said she appreciates digital advancements that enhance operations, and credits the company as well as supportive colleagues for her long tenure.
Reflecting on her career, she said, “Working hard and staying positive can really pay off in retail.”
Vivian McSweeney brought her experience in convenience retail, bakery and deli to her first sales advisor role in the company, now balancing a Visual Merchandising role with her food responsibilities.
She also values the training opportunities M&S provides, allowing her to broaden her knowledge and skills in the food hall.
Vivian said, “Every day is different in retail, and that’s what makes it exciting.”
Reflecting on all four colleagues’ journeys, regional manager for M&S in Ireland John Paul McShane said, “The stories of Brenda, Angela, Gillian and Vivian show how working in retail can lead to long-term, rewarding careers.
“Retail offers a dynamic and fulfilling career in a vibrant environment where every day brings fresh challenges and opportunities.”
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