Hi Zoe

Hi Zoe! Could you tell us a bit about your journey into DFS, please?

Hi! I can indeed. I was working in the reception at my local gym, doing administrative work and keeping everything ticking over. A friend of mine mentioned a job which had opened up at DFS, where she worked. She made sure I applied the same day!?

I was quite nervous about the role, and what it would be like working in a grown-up office. But I knew it was a good opportunity, so I took the leap and began my career as an administrator at DFS. That was 18 years and 4 promotions ago!

Time flies! What’s been your favourite part of working at DFS for all those years?

It is, and always has been, the people. When I first started, my friend told me two things. Number One, that there was a real focus on working hard here, in order to be the best. Number Two, that this was my chance to be part of one of the friendliest cultures out there. Both really resonated with me, and continue to do so after 18 years.

How’s your role changed since you joined?

It’s changed a lot. I started out as an administrator, and worked my way up from there, learning new things as I went. Then, about a decade into working here, I faced a dilemma. I was fascinated by health and safety, so I pursued the qualifications I needed to work in that field. One day, I got offered the role of my dreams - but I didn’t want to leave the company I’d grown to love.?

Then the stars aligned, and the same role suddenly became available at DFS. Clearly I have a guardian angel here! I applied and got the role, and learnt about a whole new side to the business. I’ve loved changing perceptions of health and safety since I took on that job 8 years ago. Everyone assumes it’ll be a man with a clipboard, telling people what they can and can’t do. I spend my days challenging that, and I live for it.?

What do you look forward to in your role??

I love the opportunity I get to keep everyone safe. I take it very seriously, because it means so much to me. I look after our people, I keep them safe, and I send them home to their families - either in the same state, or a better one, than they arrived in!?

It sounds as if you love looking after people - but how does the company look after you??

I get looked after very well. I’ve had so many opportunities whilst working here, from opening up new business, to having dinner with Denise Lewis when we were sponsoring the 2012 London Olympics!?

In 2022, I took a year off to have my little boy, and felt so cared for and supported the entire time. It felt like coming home, when I returned to work a year later!?

It’s been a wild ride, but I’ve felt truly supported every step of the way.?

What’s been your biggest learning in your time here?

I used to think sofas could never be interesting. How wrong I was!

Take a look at our opportunities and apply now