Group marketing director, Holland & Barrett

What was your first job in retailing?

Management trainee at The Plumb Center.

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

Tesco - I have a Clubcard; it knows what I ate for breakfast this morning and will suggest what I should have tomorrow.

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

I can place too much faith in attitude over aptitude.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

Don’t be afraid to challenge the conventions.

What keeps you awake at night?

New ideas and the future of our company.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career?

The managing directors and chief executives that I have worked for along the way… both good and bad.

What is the most satisfying part of your job?

When our new products and marketing campaigns succeed.

What is your proudest achievement?

Reaching more than 1,000 stores within the NBTY group [which owns Holland & Barrett].

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

A car trader.

What is your favourite shop and why?

Apple Retail stores - there is always something new to play with, then buy.

What was your last purchase?

An Apple iPad. I didn’t know I needed it and still don’t. I’m a marketer’s dream.

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