Darren Welford
About Darren Welford
Darren Welford serves as the Store Manager at Wickes in Alton, Hampshire, where he has worked since 2012. He oversees strategic planning, local action initiatives, and maintains a 'Stay Safe' culture while managing recruitment and performance within the store.
Work at Wickes
Darren Welford has served as Store Manager at Wickes since 2012, overseeing operations in Alton, Hampshire. In this role, he holds full profit and loss (P&L) ownership, which entails strategic planning aimed at enhancing the customer experience. He engages in localized action planning to align with company objectives. His responsibilities also include leading the recruitment process for new Store Managers and key colleagues within the south coast region. Additionally, he focuses on maintaining a 'Stay Safe' culture within the store, ensuring a safe environment for both customers and staff.
Previous Experience at B&Q
Before joining Wickes, Darren Welford worked at B&Q as TradePoint Manager from 2010 to 2012 in Hedge End, Southampton. In this position, he was responsible for managing trade services and customer relations, contributing to the overall success of the store. His experience at B&Q provided him with valuable insights into retail management and customer service, which he has applied in his subsequent roles.
Career Progression at Wickes
Darren Welford's career at Wickes began in 2003 when he joined as Deputy Manager. He held this position for seven years, working in Hedge End, Reading, and Havant. His experience in this role laid the groundwork for his advancement to Store Manager. Throughout his tenure, he has played a significant role in change management and has worked to exceed colleague engagement expectations, demonstrating his commitment to effective team leadership.
Education and Expertise
Darren Welford studied at Weston Park, where he gained foundational knowledge that supports his career in retail management. His expertise encompasses strategic planning, performance management, audit compliance, and HR management within the store. He conducts timely colleague reviews to ensure effective performance management, contributing to a productive work environment.
Focus on Safety and Compliance
Darren Welford emphasizes the importance of a 'Stay Safe' culture within his store. He is responsible for ensuring audit compliance and managing HR functions, which are critical for maintaining operational standards. His focus on safety and compliance reflects his commitment to creating a secure shopping environment for customers and a supportive workplace for colleagues.