Ken Daly

What was your first job in retailing?

I was a sales assistant in Gap.

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

It would have to be Wilkinson because it knows exactly where it is headed and executes its plans with frightening efficiency.

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

I have a strange longing for the great, simple primeval things in life such as the sea.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

Only proceed if you adore serving the customer.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Seeing our people being passionate about our business.

What keeps you awake at night?

When the sales numbers are down.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career?

Retail Week.

What’s your proudest achievement?

Winning the fathers’ race at my five-year-old son’s school sports day.

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

My dream would have been to become a rock star. In reality, an electronic engineer.

What’s your favourite shop and why?

Selfridges for the excitement.

What was your last purchase?

A Cosmopolitan.