Hugh Fahy, chief information officer for the Net-a-Porter Group speaks to Retail Week about his non-retail background and proudest achievement.

Hugh Fahy

What was your first job in retailing?

This is my first job in retail. Before this I worked in the gambling sector with Betfair, in the telecommunications sector with Vodafone and have spent time at a number of start-ups around the world.

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

Amazon. It is ‘indispensable’ in my family. That says it all.

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

I am at my best in a crisis so am prone to leave homework to the last minute. I would like to be at my best all the time.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career?

Net-a-Porter’s founder, Natalie Massenet.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

Make sure you get a view across other sectors. It’ll give perspective. There are plenty of ideas we ‘newbies’ can bring to retail.

What keeps you awake at night?

My kids.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Every time a team member unexpectedly goes above and beyond and makes the difficult seem easy.

What’s your proudest achievement?

Rebuilding Betfair’s development teams and platforms.

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

Mobile telephony technology guy probably, but I’d have preferred Formula 1 racing driver or astronaut.

What’s your favourite shop and why?

Wiggle. It always has the cycling product I need.

What was your last purchase?

‘Super laces’ for my cycling shoes.