Miriam Lahage

What was your first job in retailing?

I started off working for an independent shop owner in upstate New York, managing, buying, and everything else. It was a great way to gain insights into the customer.

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

All Saints has forged new ground, and keeps reinventing itself. I love its rocker chic ethos.

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

I am wildly impatient with a bias toward action. I am the definitive ‘Point, Shoot, Aim’ person.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career?

My older sister, who taught me to act authentically in everything I do.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

We earn the privilege to connect with the customer. Be sure to live up to your promises.

What keeps you awake at night?

Nothing.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Developing creative and vision-setting skills in others.

What’s your proudest achievement?

I was humbled to be voted Online Fashion Star 2009-10 by The Independent, as it was voted for by my peers.

Launching Koodos, the UK’s first online designer outlet, was incredibly fulfilling. But my proudest achievement has to be the impressive young man my son has become at 20.

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

I think I was born to work in off-price retail. When I was a kid my dad used to negotiate for a discount in shops - I found it mortifying, but it moulded me.

What’s your favourite shop and why?

Wild Swans in Islington has a beautifully curated selection of Danish designers.

What was your last purchase?

I bought a Derek Lam dress on the eBay mobile fashion app, of course. Tomorrow I will snap up an Alexander Wang small leather bag on eBay.