Q: Are you where you’ve always wanted to be?
A: Growing up in Scotland I never thought I would be living in Barbados and working in an industry I love. At university I studied psychology and intended for that to be my career path, however, I started working in retail part time and found I loved merchandising and display as well as the constantly changing and evolving work environment. That first job got me hooked and I haven’t looked back. Retail is a challenging and demanding industry and my belief is that to be successful in retail you must have a genuine passion for what you do. I feel very lucky to be working in a career I love in one of the best locations ever.
Q: What is your biggest professional challenge?
A: Accepting that not everyone is as equally driven and motivated in their career. I am always striving to improve on the status quo but everyone embraces change in their own way and at their own pace. Understanding this is essential to moving forward and achieving success.
Q: What is your biggest life challenge?
A: Being a working mum is a constant challenge. Everyone has a different opinion about mothers who work, particularly those who do so through choice. I am very fortunate to have a great support network that allows me to follow my ambitions while also raising our amazing daughter, Madison. For me, a balanced life means one in which you are fulfilled by the choices you make regarding family, career and community.
Q: When you look to the future what do you see?
A: I see myself and team Standard setting the bar for all aspects of retailing in Barbados.
Q: What is your favourite pastime?
A: I love cooking, especially when it is for friends and family. There is nothing better than being in excellent company, enjoying good food and great times.
Q: What is your favourite meal?
A: I love tapas style food because it has lots of variety and sharing. That along with a divine dessert, probably featuring chocolate.
Q: On Saturday nights where are you likely to be?
A: Spending time with my husband and daughter, whether at home, the movies or having dinner. Our family time together is precious.
Q: What upsets you the most?
A: Dishonesty and discrimination. I am a “tell it like it is” person and have a strong dislike of unfairness in any form. Decisions may not always be popular but once they are based on fact and delivered with no prejudice you can have faith it was the right one.
Q: What is your guiding philosophy?
A: I believe that your actions and what you work hard at reflect who you are and what you stand for.
Q: If you had the chance to manage Barbados for a day, what would you do?
A: As a country our level of customer service is lacking across all sectors. This may seem extreme but I would mandate that everyone get the opportunity to experience a world class customer experience outside of Barbados, for example Disney World, so that there is a realisation that customer service is the key to success for all businesses. Until we as a nation recognise the true value and importance of being customer service ambassadors we will not fully realise the potential of this beautiful and unique island.
