Building a Career with Purpose – Lessons from Andrea Cook
Success in any career isn’t just about finding the right job—it’s about finding the right fit, embracing change, and believing in yourself. Andrea Cook, Head of People at Total Fitness, has built her career by doing exactly that. From early roles in retail and aviation to leading one of the most people-focused fitness brands, Andrea Cook has developed a career based on authenticity, adaptability, and a relentless focus on supporting others.
On the Love Your Career Podcast, hosted by Lawrence Everest, Andrea Cook shared her career journey, her leadership philosophy, and advice for job seekers. Whether you're looking to progress, pivot, or develop your skills, her insights offer a blueprint for long-term success.
1. Your Career Path Might Not Be Straight – And That’s Okay
Unlike many who have a clear career plan, Andrea Cook admitted that she didn’t always know what she wanted.
📌 Her early jobs in window dressing and fashion retail didn’t feel fulfilling, leading her to search for something different.
📌 A bold decision to apply for Emirates cabin crew changed everything, opening the door to a new world of HR and recruitment.
💡 “At first, I didn’t know what I was searching for. But once I found it, everything made sense.”
For job seekers, this is an important reminder: You don’t have to have it all figured out—sometimes, the right path reveals itself over time.
2. Take Opportunities – Even If You’re Unsure
Some of the biggest moves in Andrea Cook’s career came from taking a chance on roles she wasn’t actively looking for.
📌 After working as cabin crew, her manager encouraged her to apply for a recruitment role within Emirates—a decision that changed the trajectory of her career.
📌 Later, while working in retail at John Lewis, a manager suggested an HR administrator role, leading her deeper into people management.
💡 “Sometimes, other people see things in you that you don’t see in yourself. Be open to those moments.”
For job seekers, this highlights a key lesson: Be open to new opportunities—you never know where they might lead.
3. Finding the Right Culture is Everything
While skills and experience matter, Andrea Cook believes that finding the right company culture is even more important.
📌 After a long career in retail and HR, she made a huge leap into the fitness industry with Total Fitness—a move that wasn’t initially in her plans.
📌 The shift was challenging, but she quickly realized it was the right culture for her personality and leadership style.
💡 “I was out of my comfort zone, but I knew I had found a company where I could really make a difference.”
For job seekers, this means focusing not just on the job title and salary, but also on whether a company’s values align with your own.
4. If You Want to Be Noticed, Do More Than Your Job Description
One of the most powerful lessons Andrea Cook shared was how she was consistently “spotted” by leaders throughout her career.
📌 She was offered new opportunities not because she asked—but because she went above and beyond in every role.
📌 Whether in HR, recruitment, or leadership, she made sure to add value beyond her core responsibilities.
💡 “I kept my head down, worked hard, and wasn’t afraid to put ideas forward. That’s what got me noticed.”
For job seekers, this means taking initiative, showing enthusiasm, and demonstrating value—even before a promotion is on the table.
5. Job Satisfaction Comes from Making a Difference
Andrea Cook is passionate about helping people grow, and that’s what keeps her motivated in HR.
📌 At Total Fitness, she has played a key role in transforming the company into an “employer of choice”.
📌 Her focus on employee engagement, development programs, and recruitment transparency has helped build a strong, positive workplace culture.
💡 “I care deeply about the people in our business. That’s what drives me every day.”
For job seekers, this is a reminder that finding meaning in your work is just as important as career growth.
6. Great Companies Invest in Their People
One of the biggest reasons for Total Fitness’ success? They invest in their people.
📌 Their Elevate Program helps heads of departments grow into general managers, with 5 out of 6 participants recently promoted.
📌 They’ve expanded learning opportunities for employees at all levels, ensuring that those who want to grow have a clear path forward.
💡 “If you don’t invest in your team, they’ll leave. If you develop them, they’ll grow with you.”
For job seekers, this means looking for companies that don’t just hire talent—but actively nurture it.
7. Confidence and Bravery Are Essential for Growth
When giving advice to job seekers, Andrea Cook kept coming back to one theme: Be brave.
📌 Many people hold themselves back from applying for roles because they don’t think they’re ready.
📌 But confidence comes from taking action, not from waiting until you feel fully prepared.
💡 “Don’t be afraid to try something new. Step out of your comfort zone. You’ll find your way.”
For job seekers, this is crucial: Take that leap. Apply for that job. Say yes to that opportunity. You never know where it could take you.
Final Thought: Build a Career That Feels Right for You
Andrea Cook has built a career based on growth, people, and purpose—and she encourages others to do the same.
✅ Embrace change. Your career will evolve, and that’s a good thing.
✅ Take opportunities. Even if you’re unsure, the right move can change everything.
✅ Find the right culture. A company that aligns with your values will always be the best fit.
✅ Invest in yourself. Keep learning, growing, and putting yourself forward.
💡 “A career isn’t just about climbing the ladder—it’s about finding work that makes you happy.”
Want More Career Insights? Listen to the Full Episode! 🎧
This episode of the Love Your Career Podcast is packed with even more wisdom from Andrea Cook.
📢 Tune in to hear her full story and expert insights!
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