Jody Sheckter

What was your first job in retailing?

Our first steps into retail were with the Laverstoke butcher shop on the farm.

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

John Lewis. Good value, good service and good selection.

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

I am forgetful.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career?

Sainsbury’s.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

Start on the floor selling in the best store.

What keeps you awake at night?

Coffee. And thinking of things we can do better at Laverstoke.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Researching new projects, finding ways we can do it better than it has been done before and succeeding.

What’s your proudest achievement?

Wining awards for our different produce and opening the Twickenham shop.

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

I would have stayed a farmer.

What’s your favourite shop and why?

The Laverstoke Butcher Shop at Twickenham – it is beautiful and nearly all the produce sold is from the farm or made on the farm.

What was your last purchase?

Ice cream, fudge and lamb chops – all from our shop.