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Retail Research Group
BSc (Hons) Retail Management
Undergraduate Testimonies
Peter Collins - Retail & Consumer Analyst, PricewaterhouseCoopers
“The UniS BSc (Hons) Retail Management Degree is an excellent choice for anyone looking to develop a broad understanding of business principles and issues while acquiring a deeper knowledge of what makes the Retail industry tick.
The tutors bring the subject matter alive with real-world examples and scenarios and deliver them with a great enthusiasm for the industry. This creates a challenging and dynamic environment – just like Retail really.
I’ve no doubt that the course - and the year in industry - equipped me with a thorough understanding of Retail and the skills to use that knowledge in a way that is valuable to employers of all kinds. I graduated in 1998 and immediately secured a Junior Analyst role with Verdict Research, a well respected retail analysis and consultancy business. After three years progressing there I moved to PwC as a Retail & Consumer Analyst, where I produce and present in-depth strategic, market and financial analysis to leaders in the business.
Peter Collins - Retail & Consumer Analyst, PricewaterhouseCoopers
Everyone has an opinion about Retail, because everyone is a consumer. This course will make your opinion a more informed and accurate one. It will give you a great opportunity to succeed in business.”
Alastair Lockhart - Retail Consultant, Verdict Research
“I chose a BSc (Hons) degree in Retail Management at the University of Surrey because of its leading reputation for teaching, closeness to industry and excellent facilities – I was not disappointed. Teaching was of the highest standard and was reinforced by the lecturers’ years of rich industry experience and knowledge in addition to their academic research. My placement year with ICL Retail Systems gave me excellent insight into working life and proved invaluable when applying for jobs after graduation.
Alastair Lockhart - Retail Consultant, Verdict Research
I now work as a Consultant for Verdict Research, a leading retail consultancy based in London, working with large retail clients, advising on areas including pricing, ranging and business strategy.
My time at Surrey was one of the most enjoyable periods of my life and provided an ideal foundation to start my career.”
Soren Kristensen - Regional Category Manager, Asia Pacific, Alfred Dunhill
“I would never have believed you if you had told me on my first day at the University of Surrey where my degree and a bit of hard work would take me.
The Monday after graduation week at UniS, I made my way to the London offices of luxury goods retailer Alfred Dunhill, the company where I spent my placement year, to start as the Marketing Executive for the UK. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, this role led me to many rewarding responsibilities including managing a seven-figure marketing budget and organising large scale events for consumers, celebrities and press.
Two years later, I was transferred internally to Business Development Manager for the Middle East, based in London. This role gave me the opportunity to gain fantastic professional experience from the people of countries such as the UAE, Egypt, Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar. I even had the pleasure of meeting the Prime Minister of Bahrain to present him with a gift from the brand.
Three years after graduation, I am lucky enough to be living and working in Hong Kong, still for Alfred Dunhill as a Regional Category Manager across Asia Pacific. I now have the opportunity to travel to over 100 Alfred Dunhill stores in cities such as Singapore, Beijing, Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur and Seoul, gaining exposure to global regions that are generating industry headlines. Being responsible for the development of a product category across the company’s largest region, I work with our market management and head office to provide growth solutions in order to meet consumers and brand expectations.
As you can tell, I have been very fortunate since my graduation from the School of Management, but not all by chance. The retail industry is one of the largest, most dynamic and rewarding industries available. The University of Surrey BSc (Hons) Retail Management degree offered me a deep insight into modern retail organisations and their business practices. The modular structure of the course allows you to tailor your skills to take to the job market. The placement year is invaluable, offering the opportunity not only to apply and relate your studies to the real world, but also to forge relationships with individuals and companies who can assist you along your career path. Thank you to all at UniS, School of Management.”