Ever wondered what it is like to work at Amazon? Curious about the type of people that thrive in one of the world’s most customer-centric companies?
In this month’s profile, we learn more about one Londoner’s quest to help retailers build their business. We also discover her passion for fashion inside and outside the office in this short Q&A.
How would you describe yourself?
I am a motivated, driven, positive and creative person.
When did you join Amazon, and what can you tell us about your role?
I joined Amazon 3 years ago as an Associate Partner Manager working with small to medium merchants, I also ran a series of prospecting events, such as Fulfilment center tours, and the first UK Amazon Pay merchant summit (where the actual Jo Malone spoke!)
I then progressed on to become a Partner Manager, working with medium to large merchants, launching the likes of Hobbycraft, Victoria Beckham and Jigsaw.
It is a great role because it goes beyond sales, there is a lot of strategy involved; negotiation, pitching, design, project management and handling contracts.
My role is to build relationships with high potential retailers across a variety of different categories, helping them grow their online businesses with Amazon Pay. I am passionate about all things fashion, so this year I am taking on a goal of working out how we can win faster and delight more customers in this category.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day involves pitching to merchants, taking steps to understand their business, negotiating fee structures and contracts, and working closely with the integration team to ensure the technical process goes smoothly.
I am often travelling to merchant’s offices to pitch to their Ecommerce Director and CTO on how Amazon Pay could work for them.
What do you enjoy about Amazon’s culture? Or what’s one thing you’ve learned since your time at Amazon?
I’m surrounded by smart and ambitious people, which makes me constantly raise my game too. I love that if you have an idea, no matter how big (such as running a summit for 200 attendees at Amazon’s UK fashion studio!) you can get the support and go for it.
What is your favorite leadership principle and why?
Earn trust, it is the most important in my opinion and you can’t do business without it. I really value people who are strong in this quality. The best and most long term partnerships I have experienced are because there was trust between us and the brand. It also makes for a better work environment on the team.
What is one of the reasons you enjoy working at Amazon Pay?
I enjoy hearing from passionate brand owners about their businesses, their aspirations and how they created and grew their brand. I love seeing them make the connection of how we can impact their growth and then the satisfaction of when Amazon Pay goes on to perform well for them.
How does Amazon support your career goals?
I have supportive managers who are great at providing development opportunities. If you are open to working hard then there is a lot of opportunity for success.
What’s the best thing about coming to work each day? Is there a “perk” to your job that might surprise people?
The best thing about work is the Amazon Pay team members. We have a great group of individuals that make coming into work a pleasure.
Also, the office has a pretty great view of London. Getting in early makes for a very picturesque view!
Outside of work, what are some of your passions?
I went to an International School in Malaysia, so travel is really important to me, especially as a lot of my friends are now dotted all over the place.
I love anything to do with fashion; I recently took a short course to learn how to sew and make clothes. I like discovering new pop up shops in London, exploring the creative element of shop windows, and seeing new products, trends and fabrics.
Outside of work I am also very excited to be an Aunt to my nephews and nieces. Any time I can get with them is the best.
If you had a personal motto, what would it be?
Have courage and be kind :)