Our People

"I started my work career at age of 19, when I moved out from my country, Poland, to the UK. I never knew what I wanted to do and was very jealous of my friends who were already set on their goals. I had a few part time jobs such as Waitress and Warehouse Associate. My first full time job was as a barmaid. I had no experience, but I learnt fast as I have a strong will. I knew that I needed to start somewhere. Thanks to that job I developed my language skills and became more confident- so I started to look for a new job. I knew that my work experience was not that good but I always wanted to work for a big company, one which would help me to develop myself and give me the opportunity to move forward. One day, whilst shopping, I discovered that TK Maxx was looking for new Associates for their brand new flagship store in Manchester. Without a minute to waste I took an application form and filled it out. A few days later I received a letter with an invitation for an interview. When I arrived I was amazed with the amount of people who had turned up for an interview. That was the day when I found out about TK Maxx's philosophy. Then and there I knew that this is company for me. Luckily I got the job and my real journey begun.

As a brand new Associate I had no idea about merchandising - I didn't even know brands. Surprisingly I made huge progress within a few months and after a year I became a Specialist responsible for accessories. It was a very hard time, but I enjoyed it. After a year of doing this I was ready for a change - I never put limits on myself, always want more and more.

That year a new programme came up called "TJXcellence". I knew about the Company's expansion in Europe and I wanted to be a part of it. Everyone in the company could participate in this programme, so I was stunned when I found out that I was successful in my application. I received a list of projects to choose from, and selected a project within the property department. I started straight away - and I loved it! TJX Europe is much more than nice shops and fabulous clothes - there are so many things to do! I learnt about different departments, and how they co-work together creating a big company.

The Company provided me with all the training necessary for my role. There were a lot of challenges for me and didn't know if I could achieve them. There are times when you really have to work very hard to make just a little step forward - but then the satisfaction is amazing. The most challenging thing for me was getting out of my comfort zone. I am a very quiet person, and sometimes I get stressed. I had to learn how to deal with this and become confident. I think this is the most important thing you have to achieve if you want to become successful - confidence.

The difference between my previous jobs and my current job is that now I can move forward. I know that there is always something to explore and learn. I do not feel like I am stuck in one place anymore. The company always gives me support and help if I need it. TJX Europe is not only about the fashion - but also about the people. I have got to meet some incredibly successful people around the business and learn about their experiences. It was amazing to learn about their journeys with TJX Europe. This is a great company to develop your career and meet a lot of fantastic people.

Today I work as a European Expansion Co-ordinator and I love what I do. It is unbelievable how TJX Europe changed my life. The company gave me the chance I was always dreaming of - and now I believe I can achieve much more. Finally I set my own goals - and I know I can achieve them. "