Employee Spotlight - Sophie Hooper, Deputy Showroom Director

"I started my career with the Watches of Switzerland Group in May 2002 at Goldsmiths in Exeter as a Sales Consultant. I had just left school and was looking for a temporary role; I never imagined I would be lucky enough to find something I loved so much as my first job!

I enjoyed the opportunity to meet and talk with a wide variety of clients and to learn about the jewellery and watch products, there were so many opportunities to study and develop new skills. As a bonus, I met a fabulous team of people, some of whom I am still in touch with over 20 years later. This has been the case in every showroom that I've worked in since, the people have always been wonderful, it has made for a very happy career.

I left Goldsmiths after a year, but very much hoped I would be able to return. When an opportunity came up two years later at the same showroom, I re-joined the Exeter team as a Supervisor - that was on 1st?July 2005 and this month I have celebrated my 19-year anniversary with WoSG!

Over the next nine years I worked in various Goldsmiths’ locations, including Exeter and Torquay and then in Goldsmiths Bristol Cribbs Causeway as a Supervisor, then as an Assistant Manager, and then with Goldsmiths Bristol Cabot Circus as Deputy Manager. During this time, I worked on several different projects, such as assisting with the re-openings of Goldsmiths showrooms and regional Aftersales projects. It was an exciting time for the Group, as we incorporated Mappin and Webb and Watches of Switzerland, and I enjoyed the varied and interesting nature of the roles available. I learned so much during my time at Goldsmiths and it was the best start possible for my move to London.

When the opportunity arose to join the opening team for 155 Regent Street, I knew immediately that I wanted to be a part of such an exciting project. I was fortunate to be offered a role as Sales Floor Executive and joined the team in April 2014. After a year in Regent Street, the role of Rolex Boutique Manager became available. I had been very passionate about the Rolex brand but I had been nervous to ever apply for such a role.?However, I took a chance, and was successful! I've now been in the role for 9 years and I have loved every minute.?

My role at 155 Regent Street has been the highlight of my career so far, it has been challenging and fascinating, and has developed me both professionally and personally. Most of all, I have had the fortune of working with a brilliant team. Also, with some inspiring leaders, such as Gemma Gilmour, Deputy Showroom Director at 155 Regent Street. Gemma has been my mentor and friend for the last 4 years and I'm so grateful for her support and guidance. Leaders like her can make such a difference!

I am now about to move into the role of Deputy Showroom Director for the new Rolex Boutique on Old Bond Street. This is a dream come true for me in my career and I feel very privileged to be taking on such an opportunity. I am very excited for the months ahead and can't wait to open our new Flagship Rolex showroom. Our goal is to be the finest Rolex showroom in the world, and with WoSG and the team behind us, I have every confidence in our success.

My advice for anyone looking to develop their career in the watch/jewellery retail industry, is to be prepared to work hard! It's physically and emotionally demanding, but it's so rewarding too. You will meet the best people, learn from them, and probably make lifelong friendships as a result. Most importantly of all, approach it with kindness. I think that kindness is the best quality anyone can bring to a role. You will meet so many people to extend this to and can make a real difference to someone's day, be it a client or a colleague. That is a special privilege and responsibility."