Let me start by saying this was a brand that I *truly* envisioned myself working for and growing with, especially in launching their first outlet in Gunwharf Quays (as somebody who already works in the same shopping centre), but boy did they show their true colours in the end. The process started as an initial online application, which was followed by a phone screening (the interviewer was 1 hour late to this) and then I was invited to a Video Interview with recruitment lead and the Area Manager. This interview involved a task in which they specifically asked me to travel to and visit a local store, perform a SWOT as well as put together a 15 minute presentation for a scenario based brief. I had booked in my slot, completed the presentation, travelled to Southampton to perform the SWOT and written in great detail my findings. My interview was supposed to be today, 13/06/25, but less than 24 hours ago I was sent an email from the recruitment team informing me they had now filled the position - WITHOUT ever giving me the opportunity to interview with them (even though it was booked in). All of this preparation involving travel costs, as well as time alongside my current role putting together the task they had specifically asked for only to be cancelled on with such short notice. Considering this brands ethos is “Work Hard, Play Hard, BE KIND” they could not have steered further from this if they tried. An appalling, insulting and incredibly unprofessional way to handle a recruitment process. In my 10 years of retail (5 of which management) I have never, EVER hired somebody without giving other candidates a fair opportunity and this is a massive slap in the face. Definitely taking this as a sign of bad things to come should I have settled with the brand, dodged a bullet for sure. Disgusting company, avoid at all costs.

My Oliver Bonas interview was a friendly and relaxed process, where I was able to comfortably talk to the interviewers and have an enjoyable conversation around work and life, along with showing my passion and understanding of the job role I was applying for.