Funeralcare is more than a job - it's a vocation

Driven by a desire to make a difference, Regional Operations Manager, Daniel Turvey has grown his career from the frontline to regional leadership while staying true to what matters most: caring for families and colleagues.

What did you do before joining Co-op?

After leaving school at 16, I went to college and got a part-time job at McDonald's. College wasn't really for me, so I tried a few different roles, including telesales and working at a paintball site, while I figured out what I wanted to do.

What attracted you to Co-op?

A friend of mine worked for Co-op and mentioned there were some part-time Funeral Service Operative roles available. If I'm honest, I didn't know much about Funeralcare at the time. I wasn't even sure whether it was something I'd be able to do, but I wanted to find out more. I applied for an interview, and although I didn't have my driving licence yet, I was offered the role on the condition that I passed my driving test that week. Thankfully, I did!

When did you start with Co-op?

I joined Co-op in July 2004 when I was 18 years old, working as a casual Funeral Service Operative on a zero-hours contract.

Tell us about your career journey with Co-op

My career journey with Co-op began in what was initially a casual role, but it quickly became clear that I wanted to build a long-term career here and moved into a Trainee Funeral Director. That was a role I genuinely loved and one that gave me a real appreciation for the difference we can make for families during some of the most difficult moments in their lives.

Throughout my career, I've always been keen to challenge myself, learn new skills and take on new opportunities. That drive has allowed me to gain lots of experience. I've managed both small and large care centres, led operational teams, and supported colleagues across multiple regions, giving me a deep understanding of how our services come together to support clients and communities.

Along the way, I've also had opportunities to work on projects focused on reviewing processes and identifying efficiencies across Funeralcare and collaborating with teams across Co-op and develop a broader perspective of the business beyond day-to-day operations.

I've helped establish and lead operations within a purpose-built care centre and mortuary facility, while also supporting teams across London and working closely with local managers and frontline colleagues. The guidance and mentoring I've received from senior leaders throughout my career has played a significant role in my development, helping me build the confidence and skills needed to take on broader operational leadership responsibilities.

Today, as Regional Operations Manager, I draw on the experience I've gained across every stage of my journey. Having worked in a variety of operational and leadership roles, I'm passionate about supporting colleagues, delivering high standards of care, and ensuring we continue to provide the very best service for the families who rely on us.

Have you had the support from leaders to develop?

Absolutely. Throughout my career, I've had supportive managers who have encouraged me to take on new challenges and helped me grow. Mentoring has played a big part in my development too. I've always been trusted to take ownership and make decisions, while knowing support is there whenever I need it. That combination of trust and guidance has made a huge difference to my career.

What would you say you're most proud of?

I'm proud of how far I've come and of pushing myself outside my comfort zone to get where I am today.

But more than that, I'm proud of the difference we make in Funeralcare. Supporting families during one of the hardest times in their lives is a privilege, and there are funerals I've been involved in that will stay with me forever.

I'm also incredibly proud of the colleagues I've supported throughout my career. Seeing people I've worked with grow, develop and progress into new roles is one of the most rewarding parts of being a leader.

What would you say to someone who hasn't considered Funeralcare as a career?

If you'd told my 18-year-old self that I'd still be working in Funeralcare more than 20 years later, I wouldn't have believed you. I didn't see it as a career at the time, but once I understood the difference we make to families, everything changed.

Funeralcare is so much more than a job.

It's challenging at times, and there are some really difficult moments, but it's also one of the most rewarding careers you can have. Every day gives you the opportunity to support people when they need it most and make a real difference to families and communities.

For me, it's never been just a job, it's a vocation. And that's why I've never wanted to work anywhere else.