A Day in the Life of a Shopping Centre Manager - Ginny Fellows

Ginny F. is the Centre Manager of Guildhall Shopping Centre in Exeter, currently managed by Cushman & Wakefield, and has over 10-years experience within the sector.

Morning Routine:

I usually arrive at the office early, and have a quick mooch around the centre before opening, taking in any items I may need to raise with the team. I then head up to the office... Drop my bag and coat in and get the kettle on, touch base with my operations manager making sure all is ok. Once I am settled with my cuppa I launch my computer and run through all my emails before my other team members come in. We usually have a little kitchen chat so we are all caught up and ready for the day ahead. We make it a must to laugh before the work really starts, it keeps us going and laughter is great medicine!

Workday Highlights:

My role is exciting because no 2 days are the same, every single day is different. From management meetings, events within the centre, budgeting, and breakdowns to tenants having issues and needing help. You name it, it can happen but it keeps you busy and keeps you learning. I learn so much on a day-to-day basis because new things will always happen within centre management. with over 13 years of experience in shopping centre management, the workday is exciting because you never know what will happen. I particularly enjoy catching up with the wider team and checking in with security, cleaning and maintenance. we have formed great relationships and they are key to the day to day running of the centre.

Lunchtime Escape:

I am new to Exeter so I try and take walks around the city to get to know the area and find all the hidden jewels. I often grab lunches from one of the tenants whether it be from our street food area, coffee shop or one of the larger restaurants.?

Post-Work Delights:

Out of work I? have started to enjoy Golf I am undertaking lessons and I wouldn't say I am decent but I am determined so I will keep improving, I like/love a glass of wine and my guilty pleasure is watching any Real Housewives series one of my biggest passions is Oxford United FC. After moving from Oxford I don't get to go to as many games as I used to but I still aim to watch them at the Kassam once a month.

Closing Thoughts:

In centre management I have learnt to embrace every single day, every issue, every compliment and every criticism because it makes you grow as a person. Every challenge is a chance to make change and change isn't anything to be afraid of. I am lucky to be in a job I am so passionate about. I am a huge people person and I get to work with an eclectic mix of amazing people who I learn from every single day.

If you're looking for new opportunities with Placemaking, or if you're looking to boost your network within the sector, please reach out and I'd be happy to have a discussion!