John Bovill, IT and ecommerce director of Monsoon Accessorize speaks to Retail Week about his last purchase and first job in retailing.

What was your first job in retailing?

As a kid selling women’s clothes at Wembley market and on the Harrods graduate training scheme after finishing university.

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

Harrods for its passion for the product and always putting the customer first.

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

I’m a perfectionist.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career?

Continual learning from everybody I work with. You learn more from others than you will ever teach them yourself.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

Deliver what the customer wants.

What keeps you awake at night?

Coffee.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

People. I have always been blessed with working with passionate, enthusiastic and talented people.

What’s your proudest achievement?

My family and team recognition.

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

A vineyard owner and winemaker.

What’s your favourite shop and why?

Sorry, I have to pick three. Wine merchant Lea & Sandeman, because the people are lovely and their product knowledge is excellent; Anthropologie, it is a great lifestyle brand; and Petersham Nurseries, it always delights.

What was your last purchase?

A Jigsaw men’s cardigan, a perfect transitional product.

Topics