Chief executive, Brand Alley

What was your first job in retailing?

My first jobs were in music and then online media and my first job in retailing was actually as chief executive of Brand Alley UK.

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

Net-a-Porter due to its great visuals, fabulously presented product and strong customer service.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career?

There’s no one in particular, but I have learnt a huge amount from all of the brand chief executives that Brand Alley works with.

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

My timekeeping is poor, which can sometimes annoy my wife.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

Retail is detail. Never assume that something will work itself out correctly, it invariably will not.

What keeps you awake at night?

Sourcing enough wonderful stock for our members and keeping my team happy.

What’s your proudest achievement?

My baby daughter, she’s now two years old.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Working with a great management team to improve the Brand Alley business.

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

Impossible to know, but probably running an online media business.

What’s your favourite shop and why?

The Conran Shop on Fulham Road in London. The product is quirky and beautiful, and very cleverly laid out to maximise the amount of time and cash that you spend.

What was your last purchase?

A pair of Diesel jeans.