Kyle Rowe

What was your first job in retailing?

Trainee manager in Olympus Sports when it was with the Sears Group.

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

I often find myself quoting McDonald’s not for the food but the ability to deliver world class execution and compliance globally.

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

The ability to find what’s wrong first rather than celebrate success, which is probably useful in business but seldom works with my wife and kids.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career?

I’ve learnt directly or indirectly from Paul Drake, Jacqueline Gold, Tom Hunter, Guy Parsons, but probably most from my father-in-law Graham Hulland, the former construction director for Persimmon Homes.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

Work the hours and at the level of the person that works above you and never give up.

What keeps you awake at night?

Usually playing back the highs and lows of my day at work.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Making changes happen that no one wants to do or thinks can be done and seeing the satisfaction on everyone’s face when they deliver something they thought could not be done.

What’s your proudest achievement?

My family, but professionally I smile at the thought of being the only man ever in the extensive history of Ann Summers to have been the director of the famous Party Plan Division.

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

A teacher.

What’s your favourite shop and why?

The Derby Runner store. It has a well-deserved reputation for great service, the services it offers and its fantastic product selection.

What was your last purchase?

A B&Q claw hammer.