Louis Montgomery

I began working at Marks & Spencer as a Christmas temporary employee during Year 12 at sixth form, aged 16, and was subsequently asked to remain with the company due to the positive impression I made. I consistently delivered high-quality customer service by communicating clearly with customers, identifying their needs, and providing tailored product recommendations, including arranging bespoke orders where possible. I operated tills independently and accurately, processing card and cash payments through the POS system while maintaining efficiency during busy trading periods to minimise queue times. I remained up to date with in-store promotions, new product lines, and company procedures to ensure accurate advice and maximise sales opportunities. Alongside customer-facing responsibilities, I supported stock rotation and replenishment to maintain store presentation, reduce waste, and comply with health and safety requirements. I also demonstrated integrity and awareness by monitoring and reporting suspicious activity, working closely with colleagues and store security to prevent theft. When issues arose, I handled customer complaints calmly and professionally, contributing to positive outcomes, customer satisfaction, and repeat custom.

I completed two weeks of legal work experience during the half-term break at a solicitors’ firm, where I worked closely with both partners and gained first-hand insight into professional legal practice. As an aspiring solicitor, I developed valuable skills by drafting and reviewing client contracts, ensuring legal compliance and minimising potential risk. I conducted thorough legal research to support senior solicitors in case preparation and collaborated with colleagues on more complex matters to help deliver comprehensive and well-reasoned solutions. I also shadowed solicitors across multiple practice areas, including private client and property law, where I was able to understand differing workloads, case management processes, and the importance of client relationships and professional networking within a legal firm.

I worked in a kitchen environment where I consistently followed health and safety and food hygiene procedures when using kitchen equipment to prevent accidents and ensure safe working practices. I prepared ingredients efficiently to support a fast-paced cooking process and assisted with stock rotation to reduce spoilage and minimise food waste. I maintained clean, organised, and well-stocked kitchen areas to support smooth service, cleaning food preparation and storage areas in line with scheduled standards. I was responsible for washing cutlery and crockery using industrial dishwashers and manual methods, ensuring high standards of cleanliness. I also supported and trained junior staff on kitchen processes, helping them meet food preparation and hygiene standards.