Emma Heal
Retail director, Graze, on Little Miss Sunshine, black pepper cashews and her fear of fear
What was your first-ever job? As a buyer on the Tesco graduate scheme.
What’s been your worst job interview? Urgh. I used LinkedIn to research the manager - he was horrified I knew so much and refused to answer any questions.
What was the first music single you bought? Take On Me by A-ha… on vinyl.
How do you describe your job to your mates? I say setting up retail has been like launching a start-up, with rocket fuel.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? Being a part of a talented and motivated team.
What is the least rewarding part? Admin that adds zero value, like filing expenses.
What is your motto in life? Carpe diem!
If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? We have free snacks, breakfasts and Friday drinks, weekly massages, yoga classes, great showers and all just been on holiday to Lisbon - not sure there’s much else to ask for!
Do you have any phobias? Phobophobia: fear of fear itself. I want to be able to do anything.
If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? I’d revolutionise retailers’ ability to bring NPD to market, to keep things exciting for consumers and be bang on trend.
What luxury would you have on a desert island? Facetime, music and my own extensive veg patch.
What animal most reflects your personality? According to the team, a lioness as I’m loyal, determined and quick.
What’s your favourite film and why? Little Miss Sunshine. Brilliant characters, script and acting. Achingly funny.
What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? Realising I’d left my laptop at home just before an extremely senior customer meeting. Luckily Graze is tech-savvy so it was easily accessible online, so I just about styled it out (just blown that).
Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? Helen Mirren; she never compromises, nails everything she does and I bet a night out with her would be brilliant fun.
What would your death row meal be? I’m currently obsessed with our black pepper cashews and, having been to two wonderful weddings in Italy last month, also truffle shavings.
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