noreen kinsey future thinking

What was your first job? In the bakery in our local parade of shops, with an old-fashioned ‘Arkwright’ till - honed my mental arithmetic!

What’s been your worst job interview? I applied to the Disney Store and as part of the interview process had to stand in front of a video camera and be natural. I remember being toe-curlingly, uncomfortably British.

What was the first music single you bought? Land of Make Believe by Bucks Fizz and Meatloaf’s Dead Ringer for Love.

How do you describe your job to your mates? Usually something like ‘project management’ or ‘account management’. Otherwise “market research but no, I don’t interview people with a clipboard”.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? It’s great to be responsible for brightening people’s days - either clients who can see a tangible return on their investment, or focus group participants who unexpectedly enjoy the evening.

What is your life motto? Whether the glass is half empty or half full, what’s important is there’s room for more Prosecco.

If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? Every summer off, to catch up on quality time with my kids.

Any phobias? I can’t watch other people brushing their teeth, even in films - sets my teeth on edge.

If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? Retailers’ visions would be accessible to (and bought into by) every single member of staff, so everyone from the replenishment team to accounts in HQ care passionately about delivering a perfect experience for their customers.

What luxury would you have on a desert island? A solar panel-charged piece of kit that I could access my Spotify account with.

What animal most reflects your personality? A peacock. Wandering around fairly aimlessly, making loads of noise and every now and again getting all “LOOK AT ME!”

What’s your favourite film and why? One film? Under extreme duress, I’ll plump for Calamity Jane. Fostered my love of musicals and Doris Day films generally.

Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? Hugh Jackman. What do you mean, ‘why?’!