Ann-Marie enjoys new Tesco role

One woman who worked at the former Supervalue store has spoken of her move to Tesco which opens next week in Magherafelt.

Ann-Marie McElhennon, who worked at SuperValu for three years, is relishing her new role as a wages clerk with Tesco.

“More than 40 staff transferred to Tesco employment when they bought the SuperValu store last year. This has been a really exciting time for us,” she said.

“My role is to ensure everyone gets paid correctly each month and to manage employee information. We all have valued and important roles, playing our part in the Tesco team and we are all well-rewarded as team members. We now have a discount card, an opportunity to join a Union, a pension scheme, a Save as You Earn scheme and free shares which means if Tesco performs well, we all benefit! We even get thank you vouchers to spend in Tesco at Christmas.

“I am delighted to have more flexibility in my working life now. As well as the immediate increase in pay, Tesco also offers the opportunity to do overtime and nightshifts. I can now even plan my shifts around my home life.

“It was relatively easy to adapt to the Tesco style as right from the start we felt part of the team and the wider Tesco network. There was an open night where all the ex-SuperValu staff met our new Tesco colleagues and we also enjoyed Christmas dinner with them.

“I have learnt new processes and have received excellent training in other Tesco stores. I have particularly enjoyed seeing the new store being built and helping new employees come on board and settle into their new roles. A lot of thought has gone into the layout for shoppers, but also for staff to ensure we are all performing in a comfortable environment.”

“We spent a lot of time in Tesco Cookstown where we received training and the staff there were very supportive. Right from the start we felt a part of something bigger than just Tesco Magherafelt.”

Ann-Marie concluded: “My degree is in Retailing, Marketing & Customer Services Management and I also have a Master in Business Innovation from the University of Ulster so I am very aware of the opportunities that Tesco will offer me.

“My goal is to hopefully be signed onto the management training scheme later this year to progress to be a Customer Services Manager and perhaps, one day, a Personnel Manager.

“I very much enjoy my role at Tesco. As I am the one who makes sure each person in the store gets paid, I am always very popular coming up to pay day....but I’m sure that’s only a coincidence!”