Michael

Michael has spent more than 40 years in retail, holding senior leadership roles with some of the UK's best-known retailers and international brands. His career has taken him from small independent businesses to global organisations, most recently the British Heart Foundation.

One constant throughout that journey has been Resource.

Michael first came to Resource in 1994 after being made redundant from a menswear business where he had worked for 13 years.

"I was married with one child and another on the way, and I wasn't sure what to do. I'd heard about this new charity, so I came along to see if they could help."

He still remembers the warmth of the welcome and the advice he received from his first adviser, David Arnold.

"To this day, I believe he changed my life. He encouraged me to make a list of everyone I knew and meet them, not to ask for a job, but to seek advice, understand where opportunities existed and ask who else they recommended I speak to."

That advice led to an introduction to a former Marks & Spencer board member, who encouraged Michael to apply for a role at M&S.

"I assumed they only recruited graduates. He told me they hired people from all backgrounds – but first I had to apply. I did, and I got the job."

Starting as a trainee, Michael went on to build a successful 20-year career at Marks & Spencer, eventually becoming Head of Merchandising across several clothing departments.

When he left the business in 2014, Resource was his first port of call once again. With the charity's support, he secured further senior roles, including opportunities overseas.

Now in his sixties, Michael is looking to reduce his commercial commitments and focus more on giving back. He has recently been appointed as a trustee of a retail charity and continues to value Resource's support.

"Looking for work can be lonely. Resource provides practical support, encouragement and the confidence to keep going. The advisers come from a wide range of professional backgrounds, which gives you different perspectives, and the courses are continually evolving to reflect today's job market. I've particularly enjoyed the sessions on AI."

Despite all the changes in recruitment over the last 30 years, Michael believes one piece of advice remains timeless.

"Network, network, network. Technology and AI are important, but nothing replaces building genuine relationships. Most people are willing to help if you ask. If you're not visible, people don't know you. You have nothing to lose by reaching out – and it might just lead to your next opportunity."

For Michael, Resource has been there at every major career transition, providing the advice, encouragement and practical support to help him move forward with confidence.