Itching to get straight to work aged 16, my first job was with an old fashioned menswear company, Billings & Edmonds established in 1898. Also specialising in school uniform for private schools including Eton, and Charterhouse, Billings & Edmonds gave me an education in “old school” work ethics and values. It became evident that nothing but the best attitude, attendance and effort was acceptable with any tardiness being treated, let’s just say, in a way that meant I learnt very quickly. Dealing with a very particular clientele whilst dealing with internal stock and supplier issues taught me that selling or retailing is one thing, selling high end products is another thing and must be accompanied by total professionalism and a company with decent working methods. Having felt that I had achieved but more importantly learnt what I could, it was time to spread the wings. Having dabbled with a job being a rep “on the road” selling specialist coatings, working in this impersonal corporate world did not suit. Enter my career at Hugh Harris.

In 1988 the formal wear department’s contribution to Hugh Harris Menswear was 8%. It was evident that this department could grow with some TLC and did so becoming 40% of the business within a decade. With the grounding and experience learnt at Billings & Edmonds, as well learning my craft within this specialist industry, Hugh Harris is now a recognised award winning company.