We could keep going on and on about how great we are but instead we thought let’s step aside and let our amazing people shine? Say hello to our People at DFS blogs.
“I joined 33 years ago as a machinist. I trained by watching others work and I loved learning all the different aspects of sewing and got so much satisfaction from seeing my work complete and ready for the customer. It wasn’t long before I started to train people. I loved seeing individuals progress and learning how to produce quality products.
In 2012, a partnership with Country Living and House Beautiful began. I was part of a team for the first time, I felt proud and excited to be on that journey. I soon started to train the rest of the shop floor with these products and it wasn’t long before I was offered the opportunity to be a Training Officer where we started to recruit Apprentices for Upholstery and Sewing, alongside the DofE Gold Award.
In 2020, I was asked if I was interested in becoming the Manufacturing Apprenticeship and Training Coordinator. Naturally, I jumped at the chance of learning more and have to say I’m still learning every day. I love my role as it’s so varied.
I’m passionate about supporting and guiding the trainers, giving them plans of what needs to be completed and how. Identifying gaps in the business that could be opened up to Apprenticeship opportunities and building relationships with Schools and Colleges around the local area (Doncaster and Nottingham - Derby), and taking part in career events, mock interviews, group sessions etc. The list goes on…
When I’m in a school or college and I’m asked about DFS and what we do, pupils and teachers can’t believe our sofas are made by human hands, it’s a craft that pays well. I show them photos and videos & I love to see them walk away with a smile on their face; because they know that if they are the right person, with the right attitude, they could possibly join us.
Up until that point all they think about is having to go to College and University but that isn’t for everyone, it’s great to set that seed with both students and teachers at an early stage, giving them other opportunities that work for them.”
What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining us?
Does DFS sound like the kind of place you’d want to be a part of? We’re always looking for talented and passionate people to join us. Click below to check out our current vacancies.
Our people are self-starters. We give them room to grow in a company that’s going places, while our family spirit means we champion and support each other - your team is always here to lend a hand.
