Matthew Margereson, managing director for operations at Hotel Chocolat, speaks to Retail Week about his life working in retail.

Matthew Margereson

What was your first job in retailing?

It was in grocery retailing. I started out on the trainee manager scheme with the Co-operative.

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

On the high street I admire Primark for maintaining its ‘cheap chic’ positioning and because I’m a business supply chain geek I appreciate its cost/value chain management.

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

My obsession with hair products.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career?

I’ve learnt things from many people. Unfortunately the big lessons tend to be what shouldn’t be done or repeated.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

First and foremost be sure you really want to work in retail - then work hard, care slavishly about every customer and have fun.

What keeps you awake at night?

Nothing - I’m usually ready to recharge.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

I’m part of the Hotel Chocolat team… Need I say more?

What’s your proudest achievement?

At Hotel Chocolat - creating and developing our fully integrated supply chain.

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

A stunt pilot.

What’s your favourite shop and why?

Hatters of Norwich - a passion for sartorial elegance (albeit mostly wasted on me).

What was your last purchase?

A Malmaison hotel gift voucher for two friends so that they can escape for a weekend.