Chris, Divisional Director, North

I joined Maplin just over 10 years ago after leaving the British Army. Initially when I left for civvy street, I found potential employers did not understand the experience that a military manager had to offer a business. Maplin were all together different, and offered me a role in which I could use the managerial experience gained in the army. It wasn't long before I realised the potential Maplin offered was there for the taking and was promoted through the business, and within 7 years had been promoted from the sales floor to the Executive Management Team. I now run a division of around 80 stores with 6 regional managers and approximately 900 staff.

My Journey in Maplin has been challenging, but fun, the company continues to grow from 40 stores when I joined to 142 as I write this. At each stage the challenge has been there, but more importantly the culture to allow you to succeed and progress is ever present. It takes hard work and dedication, some self sacrifice and of course a little luck. I consider myself very fortunate to work for Maplin.