Alan White, Hotter Shoes chairman and former N Brown chief executive speaks to Retail Week about his proudest achievement in retail.

What was your first job in retailing?

Newspaper boy.

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

Next stands out as a strong performer for customers and shareholders alike over a long period.

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

I’m easily distracted by exciting things so I am always up against deadlines on routine stuff.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career?

You learn something from everybody but Jim Martin [White’s predecessor at N Brown], who I worked with for 15 years, taught me how to make tough decisions.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

Know your numbers and then use your instinct.

What keeps you awake at night?

Only Jess, our goldendoodle.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Helping individuals and businesses with the experience gained throughout my career.

What’s your proudest achievement?

Seeing N Brown grow from under £50m to £1.5bn market capitalisation.

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

I looked at a career in human resources, but I wouldn’t have had the patience.

What’s your favourite shop and why?

The iTunes Store because it’s all fun stuff.

What was your last purchase?

Ralph Lauren cargo shorts for my holiday.