Caroline Kendal

What was your first job in retailing?

I started in retail by launching my first fashion business, Madison Browne in 2007. 

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

Who could fail to be impressed by Apple and its phenomenally inspirational late leader, Steve Jobs. Also, I have been lucky enough to meet Ray Kelvin, whose passion and drive have been a huge inspiration to me.

What is the trait you least like in yourself and why?

I am a pessimist by nature.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career?

My mother-in-law ran a successful women’s fashion business and I learnt a lot from her as I was growing up. Also Ted Baker wholesale director Ricky Green, and Net-a-Porter chief executive Mark Sebba.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

Passion and drive are key. If you have both these qualities, you can achieve what you want in this industry.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

I thoroughly enjoy watching the business grow but day-to-day, I get great satisfaction from positive customer feedback.

What’s your proudest achievement?

I did feel rather emotional when my younger daughter, then aged eight, chose to write a story about me for school, saying how proud she was of me for setting up my business.

What keeps you awake at night?

I go to bed so late that I fall asleep the minute my head hits the pillow.

What job would you have done if you hadn’t become a retailer?

I would have stuck at management consultancy.

What’s your favourite shop and why?

I hate shopping in London with the hassles of parking and unhelpful shop assistants. So The Outnet, which is an online discount designer fashion outlet, is always fun.

What was your last purchase?

Skinny jeans from Topshop.