This marks a significant achievement for the relatively new local, Julian Carrillo.
Julian, who began his journey with Woolworths in 2020, initially worked in Melbourne before relocating to regional Victoria in July last year.
“I started (at Woolworths) in 2020, living and working in Melbourne,” Julian said.
“Last year, I built my first property in regional Victoria, and by chance, I managed to secure an internal transfer to the Mooroopna store.“
Adjusting to life in “the quieter, more close-knit community” of regional Victoria has been a significant change, but one that Julian has embraced wholeheartedly.
“It was a huge change from the city,” Julian said.
“The pace is slower, but I really appreciate the calmness and the sense of community.
“The people here have welcomed me with open arms, which has been really, really lovely.”
Julian’s commitment to his work and the community did not go unnoticed. Earlier this year, he was nominated for the award, a recognition he never anticipated.
“When I found out that I was nominated, I was over the moon,” Julian said.
“I mean, I am quite new to this area, and honestly, I just do what I do because I love it.
“You know, I don’t do it for recognition or anything like that.
“It was a bit of a surprise, honestly, for myself, but for everything that has come since then.”
The nomination process included customer and colleague feedback, which was pivotal in his win.
“One thing that definitely worked in my favour was the customer feedback,” Julian said.
“People in the community have been so supportive, whether by ringing up head office or leaving feedback at the store.
“For myself, when I do my grocery shopping, it’s somewhat a chore.
“We definitely do it out of necessity. So, to hear what people have to say, like ‘I brightened up their day’ or ‘I’ve made their day better’, like for me, that’s the best thing I could ever hear.
“It is so, so wonderful,” Julian said.
Julian is now preparing for the next big step – attending the national conference in Sydney on October 17, where he will represent Victoria and Tasmania among other top performers from across the country.
“It’ll be my first time on a plane; I’ve never left Victoria before, so it’s very exciting,” he said.
Outside of work, Julian is “an uncle to beautiful nieces that I adore and try to see as much as I can.”
He also enjoys cooking and hosting family and friends, taking pride in showcasing life in regional Victoria.
Julian expressed his gratitude for the support he has received, and his appreciation for his team at Woolworths and the broader community.
“I don’t take anything like this for granted.
“It’s beyond anything I would ever think could happen,” Julian said.
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