” I started my career at Ontex as a product manager, an area where I had limited experience. My first few months in the role were challenging, full of steep learning curves, and yes… a few surprises (you could say I really had to absorb a lot quickly) and memorable missteps (better left off LinkedIn). But these early experiences gave me the foundation I needed to understand our products and the complex process of bringing them to market.

What truly made the difference at Ontex wasn’t just the experiences, it was the people. I found a culture built on passion, reliability, integrity, drive, and inclusivity — the kind of values you can truly take pride in — and that made all the difference. Colleagues were always a Teams message away (shout out to The Dog Walking Club chat), and they helped me turn my low points into valuable lessons. Their support encouraged me to move from trying to ‘prove myself’ to actively seeking feedback. I quickly realised that asking the right questions was just as important as having the right answers.

That culture of openness not only helped me learn faster, it built trust and gave me the confidence to grow into each new challenge.

Open conversations and taking action

This mindset was instilled in me from the very beginning by my manager. She and I set up regular check-in meetings to talk openly about how I was performing and where I could grow. These sessions quickly became a two-way exchange, where both of us were open and receptive to feedback. They gave me the chance to reflect on my strengths and find areas where I could improve.

Our conversations were honest and constructive, and while they sometimes challenged me, they also motivated me to push further. I came to understand that asking for feedback is not about showing weakness, but about showing ambition and a willingness to learn.

Taking the next step

After two years in product management, I felt ready for a new challenge. I spoke openly with my manager about my aspirations, and together we explored opportunities within Ontex. That same feedback culture that had helped me grow also gave me the confidence to make a change.

By April, I had interviewed for a role that felt like the right next step. Today, as a Key Account Manager, I get to work with our private label healthcare customers, bringing together what I’ve learned about products and retail. My journey, from cautious beginner to confident professional, has been shaped by a culture that encouraged curiosity, honesty, and action.

Don’t wait for feedback, ask for it!

Looking back, I can see my time at Ontex has been shaped less by titles and more by the culture I stepped into. The openness of my manager, the support of colleagues, and the honest feedback I received turned challenges into opportunities to grow.

For anyone seeking a change in their career, my advice is simple: don’t wait for feedback, ask for it! “