Meet The Team - Lydia

Next up in our Meet the Team series is Lydia, the woman who probably wears the most hats at No.14.

We caught up with Lydia to find out what a typical day at No.14 really looks like, the products she's loving right now, and her favourite places to visit in Ampthill.

What’s your role at No.14, and what does it involve?

My job title is Business Admin, and I look at it as managing everything that allows us to open the doors, put the lights on and safely serve our customers.

I am lucky to be very much involved in many areas of the business from buying at trade fairs, supplier relations, payment of invoices and financial liabilities, managing utilities, insurance and waste contracts as well as annual services.

My role also involves the supervision of mid week sales staff and ensuring the customer experience is always at the forefront of our minds.

There is also what I call the ‘grey area’, it means if there are issues that don't sit within anyone's remit, because it happens once in a blue moon or you don't expect it to happen, it is usually me that needs to tackle it!

What does a typical day at No.14 look like for you?

No two days are the same for me.

Yes I have date restrictions for certain things like accounts, payroll, fire safety checks etc but everything else is varied. 

For every order, there is a delivery which may need to involve supplier communications, reporting rejects, ensuring credit notes or replacements are received. Then there is an invoice which has a payment deadline and will then need to go into the quarterly accounts. 

For every sale there is a knock on effect of banking, managing change and storing till receipt info and financial information. 

My day will also involve customer interaction, liaising with the building owner and service providers.

When you’re working, are you drinking tea or coffee?

Most definitely! Ice coffee in the heatwave otherwise tea. I have a specific tea order that takes a certain skill and patience to achieve. 

We do usually have a coffee treat on a Friday, that's Maisie’s influence.

If you could take one thing home from the shop today, what would it be and why?

St Eval Sweet Pea candle, because I have run out!

If you needed a gift at the last minute, what would be your go-to pick from No.14?

For my daughters friends, jewellery - probably Isles & Stars Clover Bracelet in pale pink. 

My friends, candles or the Alice Wheeler Animal Print Train Case.

Which other independent business in Ampthill do you always recommend, and what makes it so special?

The Social, for iced coffees and Baker Street Kitchen for a catch up with my kids.

What are you most excited about at No.14 over the next few months?

Christmas!

When you’re not at No.14, what do you love doing in your spare time?

Meeting up with friends, and visiting the local cafes and eateries with the kids.