​Mari Alexandru is flourishing in the challenge of managing a team after taking the reins at Leyland SDM Hackney.

Mari has been with the company for seven years after moving to the UK from Romania.

She worked in the Shaftesbury Avenue and Shoreditch stores before successfully applying for the role of Store Manager in Hackney, one of Leyland SDM’s largest and busiest locations, earlier this year.

The promotion came after Mari won Deputy Manager of the Year in Leyland SDM’s internal awards.

Mari, 34, said: “I moved to England from Romania and needed to start earning as soon as possible so applied for all sorts of jobs.

“I was successful at Leyland SDM but, to be honest, didn’t see it as a long-term move. I was completely wrong, though – I love it.

“The business has really supported me and encouraged me to progress. Laz (store manager at Shaftesbury Avenue) and Sandra (Area Manager) have been excellent and have taught me everything I know.

“Vlad (manager at Bayswater) was also a fantastic support and continues to offer me valuable advice and guidance.”

Mari, who obtained a Masters degree in Public Administration Management from The Nicolae Titulescu University of Bucharest, has always enjoyed DIY and decorating and also has previous retail experience having worked in a shoe store.

She added: “I’m really enjoying being in charge of the Hackney store and working with my excellent team to make the store as good as it can be for our customers.

“The aspect of the job I enjoy most is engaging with the team to help customers and resolve any issues. There is usually a solution to any problem – it’s just a question of finding it.

“I also enjoy supporting my colleagues in their own development and assisting with any issues they might have.

“I’ve still got a lot to learn but I’m really pleased I accepted the opportunity of Store Manager.”

Leyland SDM Hackney is on 19-29 Balls Pond Rd and is open 6.30am to 7pm Monday to Friday, 7.30am to 6pm on Saturday and 11am to 5pm on Sunday.