Amanda Reed, buying controller from Leekes describes an inspirational local hero, and reveals her reasons to take pride in our industry:
What are you most proud of about the housewares industry?
“The people! Over time, the diligence, inventiveness, camaraderie and investment the people of the industry make into their everyday work impresses me endlessly.”
What has made you smile at work recently?
“One of my brand new starters saying, “What’s a spiralizer?””
Who is your local hero (or housewares hero) and why?
“Our ex-marketing manager Kate Jenkins. Kate has cancer; she was given 12 weeks to live nearly two years ago. She is on experimental treatment, has 29 tumours in her brain and a further 14 in her chest, but is resilient and positive. Isaac her son is 15, Belle her daughter is 12, but every time we meet she asks, “How’s business?”
Top: Leekes’ Amanda Reed pictured looking at entries along with fellow judge, John Lewis & Partners’ Matt Thomas at the recent Excellence in Housewares Awards Product Judging Day.
