Chase Your Passion: How Anthony Pavlou Found His Calling at M&S

We spoke to Anthony Pavlou, one of M&S’s Buying Admin Assistants, who shared his journey, experiences, and advice for those looking to follow a similar path.

Can you describe your role as a Buying Admin Assistant?

As a BAA, my role involves a mix of product development and administrative tasks. I help to set up products, manage samples, create line sheets, and organise fit sessions. I also handle everything from assigning product categories and suppliers to sourcing fabrics, ordering samples, and tracking packaging. Additionally, I work with the E-commerce team to ensure product titles, descriptions, and imagery are correct and will appeal to our online customers. Every day is busy, but it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of the product journey, from the initial concept to seeing it in stores across the country.

What’s your favourite part of the role?

My favourite part is being part of the entire journey, from brainstorming ideas to seeing the product hit the shelves. 

I love that I can share my opinions, collaborate with my team, and make decisions that create an amazing product lineup that customers will want to buy. There’s nothing quite like seeing something you’ve helped create in stores and knowing that customers are loving it.

What skills have you developed as a BAA?

Since starting as a BAA, my organisation and time management skills have improved significantly because the role is fast-paced and varied. I’ve also developed my creative skills by analysing market trends and applying them to our product lines for upcoming seasons. This role has taught me how to blend creativity with practicality, which is key in fashion buying.

Why did you apply for a job at M&S?

I started working for M&S part-time as a Customer Assistant when I was a teenager. After I finished school, I studied Fashion Retail at the Fashion Retail Academy, where I discovered my passion for buying. I’ve always loved M&S as a brand - there’s something for everyone, and I really wanted to be a part of that.

How has your career progressed at M&S?

I started at M&S as a Customer Assistant on the Womenswear team, moved to Kidswear, and then to the Bureau De Change. If you’re a hard worker, the business will give you new and different opportunities that fit your skillset and career aspirations. The breadth of opportunities available is something I really like about working here.

Over the past 10 months as a BAA, I’ve taken on extra responsibilities like being the BAA Peer Group Lead and the Tidy Champ. I’m now waiting to hear if I’ve been promoted to an Advanced BAA, and fingers crossed, I’ll find out this month!

What’s your proudest career moment at M&S?

My proudest moment was getting the BAA job. I had several interviews with other companies, as well as for M&S roles in Jaeger and Menswear, and I was on the verge of giving up. After my final M&S interview, I was convinced that it hadn’t gone well. The next day, I got a call, and I thought it was bad news. But when I heard I got the job, I was so overwhelmed, I cried with happiness. It was an incredible moment.

What makes M&S a special place to work?

It’s the people. No matter how stressful or busy it gets, everyone stays positive and puts their heart and soul into what they do. You can feel the passion and collaboration in every team. The progression structure is also fantastic - line managers genuinely care about your development and are always willing to help you progress.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting their career as a BAA at M&S?

Don’t let anyone dictate what you should do with your life. Growing up, my father wanted me to become a lawyer, and he wasn’t accepting of my passion for fashion. I was studying Law and Business at Sixth Form when I realised I had to follow my dreams. I left school with no backup plan, found a fashion course at the Fashion Retail Academy, and got accepted. Never let anyone dim your light - if you feel a strong gut instinct, follow it.

Starting your career as a Buying Admin Assistant at M&S gives you the chance to turn your passion for fashion into a rewarding career. If you’re organised, creative, and ready to be part of a collaborative and dynamic team, why not take the leap and apply today?