IN 1981, Erica Drexler thought a job as a checkout operator was a good way of earning some pocket money – just like her friend was doing.
Now, 40 years on, she’s worked in eight different roles across nine Coles stores in Queensland, including a four-month stint in the national headquarters in Melbourne.
Ms Drexler recently celebrated her 40-year milstone at the Loganholme store where she is customer service manager.
She’s a team player and says she feels lucky to have seen the organisation evolve and expand during her tenure.
“Seeing some of the best changes at Coles come to life has been very rewarding. Technology has changed a lot over the last 40 years and continues to make the customer experience better and better,” she said.
With a passion for people, Ms Drexler is energised by her team.
“I have seen a big shift in focus towards mental health initiatives for team members … ensuring everyone has access to support services if they need them,” she said.
She said her secret to having spent 40 years in the one company has boiled down to being able to wake up every morning and genuinely feel happy to go to work.
“The truth is that it has always been easy to come to work. I’ve always enjoyed the teams and roles, managers and regional managers across all the stores I have worked in, which makes a big difference when it comes to loving your job,” she said.