Martin Schofield, Itim

Martin Schofield, Itim. Always had an IT background and always in retail. Joined Harvey Nichols as Head of IT...

Role at Harvey Nichols

Retail Operations Director. Always had an IT background and always in retail. Joined Harvey Nichols as Head of IT, picked up Logistics and recently given UK and International stores to manage.

Best part of job

The world of high fashion is slightly surreal. Whether it be hitting the shows at New York fashion week or travelling the world looking at existing or potential sites - there are worse IT jobs.

My overall approach

Get it done and get it done for the right reasons. Be strategic but don't be afraid to be tactical along the way. My pet hate is 'IT and the Business'; I view IT as a fundamental part of the overall business and it should be managed as such. IT should not be afraid to lead and challenge.

First thing I say to suppliers

What makes you any different? Isn't everybody a treble accredited Microsoft double gold partner?

Published July 2009