Charlie Craig

During my time at Murdocks, I have developed strong responsibility and independence while building extensive knowledge of building materials and yard operations. I have progressed within the company by taking on additional responsibilities and becoming one of the more experienced team members. In this role, I regularly support and guide new employees and am trusted by the management team to assist with their training and development.

I am insured to drive the company van and carry out on-site deliveries, travelling to locations such as Dungannon. This responsibility demonstrates the trust placed in me and my reliability in representing the company professionally.

Throughout my role, I have developed valuable workplace skills, including punctuality and adaptability, transitioning from school hours to early 7am starts. I have gained a strong work ethic and a high level of dedication to my duties. I also obtained my in-house forklift licence and have experience operating machinery safely and efficiently within the yard.

My communication skills have significantly improved through daily interaction with customers and colleagues. I have developed practical skills in handling tools and materials, while maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety by ensuring the yard is kept organised and hazard-free.

During my time at Marks & Spencer, I was fully trained and became highly proficient in operating tills, which strengthened my versatility and allowed me to support the shop floor in my other role at Murdocks when required. I was trained across all departments of the store, enabling me to work effectively wherever support was needed. I worked primarily in the Menswear department, operating tills, assisting customers with purchases, and consistently delivering a high standard of customer service. I regularly received positive feedback for my customer service, distinguishing myself among seasonal staff, and was subsequently offered a permanent position in recognition of my strong work ethic and performance.

Throughout my role, I provided exceptional customer service to ensure a positive shopping experience, built strong relationships with customers to encourage engagement and loyalty, and stayed up to date with company policies to provide accurate information. I confidently handled returns and exchanges, minimising customer dissatisfaction, and facilitated efficient, accurate transactions during busy trading periods. I also developed the ability to manage cash responsibly, work effectively under pressure during peak times, replenish stock to maintain high visual standards, and ensure the store remained organised and presentable. In addition, I supported the Foodhall by restocking deliveries and operating tills, and assisted in the café during busy periods by serving and waiting tables when the team required additional support.

As part of my A-Level studies, I completed a one-week work experience placement at Dundela Primary School. During this time, I supported teachers in preparing classroom materials and assisting with daily activities to ensure lessons ran smoothly. I promoted positive behaviour within the classroom, helping to create an inclusive and respectful learning environment that encouraged empathy and cooperation among pupils. I monitored student behaviour to help maintain a safe and focused setting, and I independently delivered small group sessions to the class, demonstrating initiative and confidence. This experience significantly developed my leadership, communication, and organisational skills while strengthening my ability to work responsibly within a professional environment.