When browsing through our website, you will come to know some familiar faces within the amazing Partner photography that features.

These Partners are from all different areas of the business and with that, comes their own unique experiences and stories. Stories they wanted to share with you.

Rowena’s Story

For almost three years now, I’ve been working at John Lewis Cribbs Causeway in Bristol, a position I feel was destined for me. My journey to this role is a unique blend of fate, personal alignment, and passion for what I do. Originally from the Philippines, I spent half of my adult life in the Middle East, where I met my English husband and started a family. Little did I know, my connection with John Lewis would be a constant thread through the tapestry of my life.

My first encounter with John Lewis was during a visit to England to meet my in-laws. I fell in love with the store instantly. Having worked as a Front Office staff in a five-star hotel, excellent customer service is in my DNA. I was captivated by the brands John Lewis offered and promised myself that if we ever moved to England, this is where I wanted to work. That was 25 years ago.

In 2004, tragedy struck when my three-year-old daughter passed away due to a brain tumor. We flew to Bristol for her funeral. During this heartbreaking time, I found myself in John Lewis, seeking solace among the familiar aisles. I bought a beautiful hand-painted flowers John Lewis Heirloom white dress for my daughter. This moment, though filled with grief, also reinforced my connection to the store.

Life continued in Dubai until COVID-19 hit, prompting our return to the UK in 2021. Settling permanently, I found myself once more in John Lewis, determined to pursue my long-held dream. I subscribed to the JLP Jobs website, waiting for a Selling Partner position to be available.

In a twist of fate, I broke my ankle, and while waiting in A&E, I received a notification to apply for a Selling Partner role. Despite my injury, I completed the online assessment, which felt natural given my hotel experience. A week later, I was invited for a face-to-face interview. Despite the sore ankle, I knew deep down this job was meant for me.

With an employment gap of nearly a decade, re-entering the workforce in a new country was both daunting and exhilarating. Yet, three years on, I proudly work as a Customer Assistant in the Womenswear department. I help women choose and style outfits for various occasions, from weddings to funerals. This role is more than just a job; it’s a community.

I love what I do and have found a supportive team and wonderful customers at John Lewis. However, there’s a small challenge—I find it hard to save money with so many tempting items in my department!

In conclusion, my journey to John Lewis has been one of destiny, resilience, and fulfilment. Despite the challenges, I am grateful for this chapter in my life and look forward to many more years of helping others find joy through fashion.

At the John Lewis Partnership, we want all of our Partners (employees) to find their happier ways of working. Find out more about our commitment to our Partners, their careers and the incredible benefits of being a Partner in the Partnership by exploring the rest of our careers website.