Sarah Lock

I recruit for managerial to director-level roles in retail across fashion, accessories, beauty and lifestyle.

I’ve been recruiting in retail for a decade but prior to that, I was a retail sales manager. I feel proud of having that retail background, I believe this truly helps me with my clients and candidates because I’ve often been where they are; I know what they’re going through.

Any day that I make a placement — where I know I’ve made a genuine impact on someone’s life — is a good day. The ZD strapline is ‘we change lives one job at a time’. When I’m having a bit of a tough day, it’s good to reflect on that and realise the real difference we make here.

When I left retail I still wanted to use my skillset and passion for that world. Recruitment was perfect for me and ZD is the ideal fit. I think it’s the culture here that makes the difference. It’s supportive, fun and collaborative, which is massively important because you can just do a better job and deliver a better service when everyone works together.

Away from work, I love eating good food and spending time on the beach. I live on the coast so I get out whenever I can — in fact I had dinner on the beach last night. I’m also a committed raver and I make a mean lemon drizzle cake. Which is a hell of a combination.