Progression at Goldsmiths, with Lee Brown

Lee Brown has had a phenomenal career since joining Goldsmiths eight years ago. Beginning his journey as a Deputy Manager in Merryhill, Lee has capitalised on the many opportunities the Group has had to offer, which has seen him relocate a handful of times in order for him to further his career within Goldsmiths.

Lee took over our Reading showroom as Store Manager at the beginning of this year. I caught up with him to discuss his incredible personal development, how it feels to be managing a store that leads with Rolex and swimming with pigs. I'm not joking about that last bit.

Hi Lee. When I think about great examples of progression within Goldsmiths, your name is one of the first that comes to mind. Tell us about the different stores you've worked in since joining The Watches of Switzerland Group...

I am currently the Store Manager of our Goldsmiths showroom in Reading and have been for the last six months. I began my career with The Watches of Switzerland Group as a Deputy Manager in Merryhill and have since managed our showrooms in Coventry, Nottingham and Canary Wharf.

Talk us through the differences and similarities between the different showrooms you've worked in...

I have found each store very different, but the one thing that I can say about all of them is that the team play the biggest part in its success. Happy people sell more and it is our job as leaders to motivate and inspire our people to achieve the results that they do. It's all about having fun and ensuring that every client that walks into our showroom is treated like a VIP!

I couldn't agree more. What motivates you?

Being part of our customers journey is the main thing that motivates me. There is usually a special event that comes with the type of products we sell, be it a birthday, an engagement or wedding, or to mark a promotion. It's great knowing your client is leaving happy and with the perfect watch or piece of jewellery.

Goldsmiths is a brand you are incredibly passionate about. What is it that sets the brand apart from others out there?

We are always one step ahead. In a forever changing retail environment, we are proactive and we change with the times. We are so focussed on the customer journey and how we can improve it. We are market leaders and our competitors follow.

What advice would you give to anyone looking to join Goldsmiths?

DO IT! You won't regret it! I have to say that the progression that I have had hasn't come easy; we are quite spread geographically, so the ability to move has been essential. It was scary at first, but the teams I have worked with have made it easy for me and I cannot thank them enough!

What can you tell us about your showroom in Reading?

We have one of the best brand line up's in the company. Leading with Rolex is something I am very proud of and we also stock Omega, Breitling, Tudor and TAG Heuer, to name a few. Our diamond selection is great and I have a new diamond team in place who love to help those gents out there when picking out the perfect engagement ring - we understand it's not always an easy task!

Which of our company values resonates the most with you?

We are Enthusiastic! I love my job, the showroom and the people I work with; why wouldn't I approach my day in an enthusiastic way?

Describe your team in three words…

Target driven, reliable, enthusiastic

What can you tell us about yourself that might surprise people?

I used to be a Choir Boy and have recorded a short solo album, which will NEVER be shared! I'm also obsessed with plants... sometimes I even talk to them - it makes them grow quicker!

I'm digging out the tape player! Whilst we're on the subject of what you get up to in your spare time, I’ve heard a rumour that on a recent holiday you swam with pigs - I need to know more!

It was an amazing experience. I remember reading about it about 12 years ago and always wanted to go. When my friend suggested that we go to The Bahamas, I knew exactly what I wanted to do there!

Last, but certainly not least, I have a question from our Senior Talent Resourcing Advisor, Ewan... Who is your favourite member of the Talent Resourcing Team?

Silly question Ewan! Ewan is a great example of the support network available to the retail teams! He's worth his weight in Gold!