Name: Paul Mounsey
Airport: Stansted
Store: World Duty Free
Position: Team Leader
Paul Mounsey originally worked for another retailer at
Stansted, but always thought WDF looked more exciting. For the past
18 months, he’s been Customer Service Leader at the UK’s third
busiest airport, with ten full-time members of staff reporting to
him. He loves the environment and has spotted David Beckham and
Barbara Windsor among the celebrities passing through the
terminal.
“When I first joined, I was working nights, doing things like
cashing up and checking stock. Before long, I became one of the
first WDF employees to go through the Leadership Development
Programme, which meant I went on some brilliant internal and
external courses over a six-month period and was mentored by senior
members of the business.
“I got to know myself better as a person and learned how to get
the best out of people. As well as team-building and sales skills,
they cover interview and reviewing techniques and a whole range of
other information that’s essential for being a successful
manager.
“I’m now responsible for three shops – motivating and coaching
the teams of staff there. It’s target-driven, but everyone gets
behind our team goals. It’s a collaborative effort. The pay is
definitely competitive, the product discounts are great
(particularly at Christmas) and I even get discounted flights and
holidays. WDF will also invest in you and give you the opportunity
to flourish in your career. I plan to stay with the company and see
my next step as becoming a Category Manager. I know they’ll help me
achieve this goal.
“The buzz is constant at WDF and Stansted is Europe’s
fastest-growing airport. My tips for new starters are to be
yourself and look smart. You’ll join a fantastic team, make new
friends and will never be bored!”