They joined on temporary contracts as teenagers.
Now, Linsey and Beth have risen through the ranks to become senior managers at Marks & Spencer (M&S), with more than 40 years' tenure between them.
Their journeys began at Glasgow stores— Sauchiehall Street and Braehead—marking the start of long and successful careers.
Linsey, who is now deputy store manager for Fashion & Home at M&S Braehead, began her journey in 1999 at the age of 16.
She said: "It’s such a beloved brand.
"I remember when I first got the job, my Gran was so proud to tell her friends that her granddaughter works for M&S."
Starting on the tills in the food department, Linsey steadily took on more responsibility, from training colleagues to becoming a first aider.
She even travelled to London to help launch the Per Una brand.
At 20, she began management training, leading to a series of promotions.
She continued: "We have a great support network here in Glasgow.
"There are so many opportunities to move around and lead a varied career with M&S, and that’s because the people you meet along the way are always championing and supporting you."
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Linsey McGillivray, Fashion & Home Deputy Store Manager, M&S Braehead (Image: M&S)
Linsey also played key roles in opening M&S stores at Silverburn Shopping Centre and Glasgow Fort .
She encouraged new employees to take initiative.
Linsey added: "My advice to any fixed-term colleagues interested in pursuing a career with M&S is to ask lots of questions and let our team know about your ambitions, and you’ll find that so many people are happy to mentor you, provide training, and point you in the right direction."
Beth’s M&S story began in 2008 at age 17.
She started on a fixed-term contract in the Braehead store’s lingerie department, working late-night shifts during her final year of school.
Today, she is store manager at the M&S Food Store in Kingsgate, East Kilbride, overseeing a team of up to 115 people, including this year’s seasonal hires.
Beth said: "M&S has always had a reputation for looking after its people, which definitely motivated me to apply.
"And, of course, my mum was very excited by the prospect of a family discount."
She continued working with M&S throughout her studies at Glasgow Caledonian University and progressed through the business with the support of mentors and line managers.
Beth said: "I’ve lived a whole life while at M&S. Over my time working here, I’ve met my partner and gotten married, I’ve had a baby and made genuine friends for life through my work.
"We’re a tight knit group across the Glasgow stores."
This Christmas, she will be welcoming new seasonal staff to help with tills, customer service, and food orders.
She offered advice to those just starting out.
Beth added: "Having a positive attitude and showing enthusiasm will get you far.
"I’d also say that knowledge is power; learn all you can about the brand and its products.
"Be clear with your team about your goals, and we’ll do everything we can to help you reach them."
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