Meet Mark
It finally feels more like business as usual here at The Kitchen Store.
Over the last three months, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes, in our homes, so it’s good to see some familiar faces again.
Earlier this week I sat down with Mark, our Head of Retail, and picked his brain about kitchens, degrees and top tips …
Who are you? Tell us your story!
I started with The Kitchen Store back in June 2010 as a Kitchen Designer, then Senior Kitchen Designer, Design Manager, Store Manager and now Head of Retail.
From 2011 to 2016, I also completed a degree in Leadership & Management at Open University Business School. I’m very proud to have achieved that while working full time, it wasn’t easy. It’s been quite a journey, but, my job is extremely rewarding. I oversee all three stores as well as our Parts & Additions team. Basically for anything non trade – I’m your man.
10 years, that’s impressive! What’s the favourite part of your job?
I get the opportunity to work on kitchen showroom designing with our key supply partners – that’s something that I love.
I also really enjoy helping customers through their journey. Nothing beats bringing visions to life, but the best of all is creating them for customers who don’t know what they want.
My years of experience means I’m clued up on the technical side of the products. A deep understanding can help come up with some imaginative solutions when designing kitchens – whether that be in a kitchen showroom or working with our customers directly.
What do people love about The Kitchen Store?
The personal touch.
We have the same staff work on a project from start to finish, which means our customers build trust in us. It’s just as important for us as it is for them – and we can still do that despite our size.
What’s your top tip for anyone who’s considering a new kitchen design?
Don’t be overwhelmed. Our team are specialists in what they do, and they’ll advise you on all the bits you need to think about when you need to think about them. Just enjoy the journey.
What’s been the favourite kitchen you’ve designed?
That’s a tough one... A kitchen design that’s close to my heart is one that I fitted for my sister Kelly and her husband Nicky.
He has to use a wheelchair, and that comes with a set of demands that can dilute the aesthetic of a kitchen, and I wanted him to have the best. We designed a kitchen that suited his needs perfectly, complete with a lowered hob, downwards pull out cupboards, and pull out work surfaces.
Their new kitchen is now the heart of the home. This makes me very happy!
Mark, I certainly agree that was a very special kitchen for a special couple.
And that’s our Head of Retail, if you see him in one of our showrooms, be sure to say hi!
Contact The Kitchen Store for British and German Kitchen Designs
We really care about getting it right, whether it’s the kitchen design, the installation, or how you feel at the end of the journey. If you’re looking for a new British or German kitchen design, then please get in touch with us. Our kitchen designers can help you bring your dream kitchen to life.
Contact us on 01273 957 778 or you can book a showroom appointment here.
