Helen Tirekidis, Marketing and Communications Manager, Hunt Leather

Q:  Briefly, tell us about your business (position).

I’m the Marketing and Communications Manager of Hunt Leather. We represent Longchamp, Rimowa and many other fine leathergoods labels and leather craftsmen from Europe.

Q:  Has there been a significant business mentor in your career?

Yes, Jenny Miller, who was the Marketing Manager of Chanel. She epitomised elegance, was highly respected in the luxury goods industry and was an inspirational and wonderful manager. She showed me the ropes and trained me. She never punished mistakes and managed by example.

Q:  What is the single best piece of business advice you have received?

Always aim for excellence in your own work and focus on the detail.

Q:  What is the one most important piece of advice you would give to someone beginning their career?

Listen and always be willing to learn. When you are starting out, volunteer for as much as you can. It will count one day. Always do more than is expected of you.

Q: What is the most unusual way you got a job?

I sent in a half grown plant together with my CV. The plant had a tag which said “I want to grow”. I got the job!

Q:  Who do you most admire in business?

Karin Upton Baker.

Q:  Do you have a strategy in place for business during tough economic times?

Bottom line is to take care of your staff and your customers first – as they will be your source of stability during the tougher times.

Q:  How do you maintain your motivation?

Look within. Never expect to be motivated by anyone but yourself.

Q:  What is your definition of success?

Happiness and respect by the people who actually count.

Q:  What is the best thing that’s happened to you in business – career highlight?

Too many to mention. But recently, to be complimented by Marion Hume (international senior fashion journalist) and Jean Paul Gaultier once asking me how many sugars I have in my coffee and proceeding to make me one!!

Q:  What brings you the most happiness?

My daughters’ hugs, my husband’s cooking, and a good laugh with friends.