My retail life: Kristine Kirby, UK managing director, Zulily

What was your first job in retailing? 

When I was 16 I worked in a gift store in my town. We sold everything from cards to collectibles. Pot pourri still makes me sneeze from  spending so much time around it in that store.

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

My inability to sit still, mentally especially. I hate it because it keeps me up at night.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career? 

Jeremy Stakol, my chief executive at Lipsy. He was a visionary with that business.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail? 

Listen, learn, and do everything you are asked. It all makes you smarter and more valuable as you move up. And always remember who your customer is.

What keeps you awake at night? 

Just about anything. At the moment, my diet, which is powered by caffeine. 

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Being part of a terrific team, building something new and helping create a business that has so much potential. 

What’s your proudest achievement?

Today, launching Zulily.  Overall, teaching my mother finally to learn how to shop online.

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

Most likely gone into law. Or been a writer. Or both.

What’s your favourite shop and why? 

Daunt Books in Marylebone, I could happily spend days in there. I love the feeling of the building mixed with all those books.

What was your last purchase?

What else? A skinny latte.