Case studies: Graduate team manager: Priyank Patel

Priyank studied mathematics with finance and management at University of Plymouth before joining a graduate scheme at Argos.

After graduating with a 2:1, I joined a very exciting graduate scheme at Argos which is designed to launch and propel a fast-moving career in Distribution.

Why did I choose Distribution? Lots of reasons. It’s fascinating, never repetitive, and so many different kinds of business need to be underpinned by a great distribution network, which is good for career prospects. Why Argos? Because of the sheer scale and the progression they could offer - the opportunities to further my career using first-class management and insightful project work.

I’m currently on the first stage, gaining experience as a Stock Team Manager – which really does mean managing the performance of a whole team! Luckily, my field of study has helped me ensure accuracy in providing the correct figures on time, and planning and managing my budget, but it’s still a fantastic challenge.

I work in weekly shift patterns. Usually I get in early, look over the previous day’s figures, then start working on a brief to uplift my team and ensure a strong performance. This gives me a chance to relay information about how we’re doing and how the wider business is performing. Then I pull together everything I need for the morning meeting when all departments run through their workload. After that, and throughout the day, I check on how my shift is tracking according to set levels, meet with colleagues including senior management, stock management and the General Manager, and work on the many projects I’m associated with.

There are basically two parts to my role. The first is managing a diverse group of colleagues. The second is handling the diversity of projects. I’m currently working on two major projects and three minor projects involving a variety of colleagues, and a mixture of business-based and community-based challenges.

For example, I’m working on an exercise called RTM (Return to Manufacturer) which is worth in excess of £2.5 million. I have to plan the exercise in order for it to finish in a timely fashion, under budget. And at the same time, but completely differently, I’m working with seven schools to set up a two-week work placement.

My role has developed to give me more and more responsibility and I enjoy being surrounded by such a close-knit, friendly and helpful management team. My days are never the same, with a constant stream of new and interesting challenges.

My ambition? Make a name for myself by performing in an outstanding manner and rise in the company to General Manager and beyond. I really feel it’s possible. The structure of the graduate scheme is very inspiring - they’re looking for you to succeed, not just in the long-term but right now!