No degree, no problem: how Danielle Causebrook built a successful career in logistics in Northampton

While going straight to university after school was once considered the norm, today there are more routes than ever into a successful career, something that worked particularly well for Danielle Causebrook. From starting as a picker in a warehouse to climbing her way up the ladder, developing her career at Morrisons in Northampton has set Danielle up for success.

During the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Danielle joined Morrisons, a proud sponsor of Generation Logistics, in the hopes of finding a stable job at a reliable company. With no formal qualifications, she began her career as a key logistics operative, primarily picking stock for stores, and helping ensure goods were prepared accurately for dispatch. She then trained to work in the checking, tipping and admin functions, gaining hands-on experience in checking deliveries, unloading goods and managing the paperwork that helps keep warehouse operations running smoothly.

Progression was not at the forefront of Danielle’s mind until a manager working alongside her recognised her potential and encouraged her to sign up for Morrisons’ Pathway Programme. It was at that point that Danielle began to see a long-term future in logistics and decided to pursue the opportunity. 

However, success doesn’t always come at the first attempt. Danielle failed to pass the first stage of the interview process, leaving her disappointed but not ready to give up. The programme was revised and changed to the new Leadership Programme, the Sir Ken Morrison Leadership School, giving Danielle a prime opportunity to try the application process again. This time, she was selected for the cohort, reinforcing the message that failure was not the end of the road, but part of the process of learning, trying again and moving forward.

Once starting the leadership school, Danielle was faced with learning opportunities, left, right and centre. Being pushed out of her comfort zone allowed her to recognise that many of the fears and limitations she faced were self-imposed. As part of the course, candidates were given mentors and senior leaders to aid them in the process. With their support, Danielle became more confident and saw her potential differently. 

Danielle went on to achieve success after passing her final assessment and completing the programme. She was offered a Team Manager position at Swan Valley, a major commercial and logistics business park located in Northampton, where she continues to excel in her role today.

Having chosen not to attend university, Danielle had always felt she had missed out on the momentous graduation experience. Luckily for her, and anyone else who completed the leadership school, Morrisons provided the opportunity to attend a graduation ceremony at Bradford University. Not only was this a significantly proud moment for Danielle, but also for her family, who were there to celebrate all the hard work she had put into her journey at Morrisons.

“Believe in yourself and be willing to step outside your comfort zone. Sometimes it takes someone else to see your potential before you see it yourself. Just as importantly, you could be the person who helps someone else realise what they are capable of achieving,” says Danielle.

Bethany Windsor, Programme Director at Generation Logistics, comments: “Danielle is the epitome of how you don't need to go to university or have formal qualifications to build a successful career in logistics.

“Through her perseverance and determination, she has been able to develop her confidence and leadership skills, enabling her to progress in a logistics career. This is something anyone can do if they are willing to learn, work hard and take on obstacles.”

If you’re intrigued about logistics and you’re keen to find out what role is best suited to you, feel free to complete our “Find Your Future” quiz. https://generationlogistics.org/find-your-future/