Armed with enthusiasm, retail experience, and just the right amount of ‘dad-energy’, Stewart is ready to take on the role of Retail Area Manager where he’ll be working across our stores to make sure every charity shop thrives
What are you looking forward to about your new role as Retail Area Manager?
I’m super excited to build relationships with all the amazing volunteers, staff, and teams across retail and St Oswald’s Hospice. I can see that everybody supports one another so much, and I’m excited to support and work closely with all involved.
What attracted you to work at St Oswald’s Hospice?
St Oswald’s Hospice provides such a vital service in the area. Quality time with loved ones at such difficult times is something in which I completely resonate with, and the opportunity to contribute to such an amazing cause was unmissable.
Do you have a favourite charity shop find?
Just after starting the role, I found an amazing wooden toy with sensory bits which my daughter, who is nearly 2 years old, absolutely loves. I have also found some amazing clothes for her with ‘Bluey’, her favourite cartoon.
What were you doing before joining St Oswald’s Hospice?
Before joining St Oswald’s Hospice, I ran my own business franchise for four years in Sunderland which was part of a larger franchise called Geek Retreat. After a year of opening, I became Operations Manager with the Head Office Franchisor to support, develop and grow the corporate shops and the other franchise shops. I sold my business in April of last year so my wife and I could focus more on our daughter.
I also managed a Dreams Bed shop in Team Valley for nearly a year which was my last role before joining St Oswald’s Hospice.
Can you tell us a fun fact about yourself?
I was brought up on a farm and my family used to have ponies which we used to show quite a lot when I was younger. I would spend a lot of time going to country shows with my Grandad.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I’m so excited to get to know all of the amazing teams across the hospice and retail. Everybody has been so welcoming so far so a big thank you from me for making the start of my St Oswald’s Hospice journey so warm and memorable.
