Sonia Whiteley-Guest

Group commercial director, Sun Branding Solutions, on leg warmers, being nosy and having fun at work

sonia whiteley-guest

What was your first-ever job? I had two first jobs simultaneously while at school. I worked in the local Co-op stacking shelves during weekday evenings and worked as a cashier and jumper-folder at C&A on a Saturday.

What’s been your worst job interview? I’ve never had a bad interview to the best of my knowledge. Clearly someone’s not telling me something…

What was the first music single you bought? The soundtrack to Fame. I still like leg warmers.

How do you describe your job to your mates? I tell them I make stuff pretty.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? I love learning and am inherently nosy. So working with fabulously interesting clients across all kinds of retail disciplines is my favourite part.

What is the least rewarding part? Having to make my own tea.

What is your motto in life? Work hard and be nice to people.

If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? A personal chef. Understandably, I am food-obsessed.

Do you have any phobias? Yes, I’m scared of the sea. It’s far too powerful for my liking.

If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? Vanilla-ism. A made-up word to describe the lack of differentiation in food caused by the desire to be cheapest.

What luxury would you have on a desert island? After my family, it would be a library. I love reading in the sun.

What animal most reflects your personality? I canvassed this - and it’s the cartoon version of the Tasmanian devil, without the aggression. Although I like the definition of the loathed cockroach too - usually unwelcome but a superb survivor, very adaptable and resourceful. That also fits.

What’s your favourite film and why? I want to choose something arty but the truth is I love trash. So it’s Pretty Woman.

What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? I have none. Absolutely none. Answers not needed on a postcard.

Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? Richard Branson - he knows it’s important to have fun at work.