Susanne Akil

What was your first job in retailing?

A temporary assistant in John Menzies over the Christmas period. I was a student studying to be a nursery nurse.

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

Specsavers as a group has to be admired. It is probably the most forward thinking organisation in the market place at the moment.

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?

I have had the opportunity to work with hundreds of Specsavers joint venture partners over the past 20 years. The fact that every one owns and runs their own business has exposed me to a wealth of knowledge and experience, as well as some of the most useful business practices.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

Lead by example and never accept anything less than 100% commitment from those you employ. Listen to your customers, your staff and your own conscience.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

If I see our customer service scores increase, market share grow, a new staff member learn something new or, best of all, a customer takes the time to say they love what we do, then I’m really happy in myself.

What keeps you awake at night?

At night I tend to have my eureka moments. When I’m looking for a solution to something, I find it difficult to sleep.

What’s your proudest achievement?

Personally, it has to be my children. In business, it would be having my efforts recognised.

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

I’d still be a nursery nurse.

What’s your favourite shop and why?

Next or Debenhams. They both make my life very simple.

What was your last purchase?

A new set of dishes.