Retail guru: Nigel Oddy spent 23 years at M&S before joining House of Fraser

 

What do you do?

I run House of Fraser, the UK and Ireland’s premium department stores group. There is no such thing as a typical working day, aside from numerous internal and external meetings.

I also like to walk the high street and our stores to check out our products and listen to customer feedback.

This is what makes the job thrilling.

 

What do you find most challenging?

Dealing with a multitude of issues simultaneously is a constant challenge.

Also, having worked my way up in the business, there is a delicate balance to be maintained in being seen as approachable while at the same time being seen as the chief executive.

I operate an open-door policy, which means constant interruptions in an already very busy day, but personally I would not have it any other way.

What was your biggest break and why?

I can’t single out one big break, because certain things happen at certain times in your career and they all feel like big breaks at the time.

For example, very early on in my M&S career I was “noticed” as a young and very enthusiastic trainee in the North-West and was moved to the Marble Arch store as a trainee manager.

I was then recognised by the M&S board and brought in to head office as a merchandise manager.

Another break for me came when I was promoted at House of Fraser to chief operating officer.

This led to a natural transition to CEO when John King moved on.

What was your biggest setback and how did you overcome it?

Leaving M&S after 23 years to work for First Sport and being made redundant after less than six months, when it was sold to JD Sports!

I dealt with this by getting my head down and immediately applying for new jobs; within a week I was back in employment.

How do you juggle work with family and social life?

I have two great sons and all three of us have a passion for sport, whether participating or watching it.

We ensure that we get time together as often as work allows, although in the last year, frequent travel to China has made this a particular challenge.

I find it hard to have real downtime.

When I am not officially working I love visiting stores, either House of Fraser or the competition.

Fortunately my partner also has a love of shopping and she is quite happy joining me and spending!

Any tips for people starting off in your industry?

I think a general tip for anyone starting off in any industry is to get fully immersed in the job you are doing.

In my experience, rewards don’t usually come to people without hard work. It’s also important to ensure you know the industry well, and, most of all, enjoy what you are doing.

 

Source: http://www.standard.co.uk/business/secrets-of-my-success-house-of-fraser-boss-nigel-oddy-a3085681.html