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Success is Never Accidental  EP 64

Chris Browne describes himself as a retail obsessive. For more than 30 years, he worked with Ted Baker, serving as the company’s Global Retail Director and leading its international expansion. During that time, he was responsible for many of the distinctive elements that made Ted Baker a global brand, from its innovative and often controversial shop windows to creative direct marketing campaigns and unusual gifts with purchase.

One of the most memorable examples was the decision to hand out condoms with every purchase in support of AIDS charities — an approach that was bold, eye-catching, and consistent with Ted Baker’s quirky image. Just as significant was an early strategic decision: the brand would never advertise. Instead, it relied on originality, creativity, and customer experience to generate lasting impact.

Since leaving Ted Baker in 2017, Chris has continued to shape the retail landscape. He holds several non-executive director roles, provides global retail insight for leading consulting firms and private equity houses, and makes diverse angel investments. These include a paddle tennis club in Australia and the recently launched Jelly Drops — hydrating sweets designed to support dementia sufferers. He also shares his expertise through keynote speeches and advisory work, inspiring retailers and entrepreneurs worldwide.

Success Insights from Chris Browne

In our conversation, Chris offered a wealth of practical wisdom about leadership and success:

• Do every job to the best of your ability.
  Whether in a temporary role, an agency position, or simply uncertain about the future, the standard of effort should always be excellence.
• Uphold standards as a leader.
  Leaders must set the benchmark and consistently reinforce it. (He joked that “standards” was his go-to word when raising his own children.)
• Recruit for enthusiasm, energy, and applied intelligence.
  Skills can be developed, but a genuine willingness to do a great job and the capacity to think intelligently about the work are essential.
• Model great leadership behaviour.
  As leaders rise in seniority, they must demonstrate respect for others, show sensitivity, take an active interest in all roles within the organisation, and celebrate successes.
• Choose positivity and growth.
  Above all, Chris reminded us that mindset is critical. We have the ability to choose to be positive, to add value, to be the best version of ourselves, and ultimately, to succeed.

Todays Challenge

Chris’s reflections highlight a timeless truth: success is never accidental — it is intentional.

So here is a challenge for you this week: What is one area of your life that is not currently getting the best of you?
Is it a relationship? A health issue? An aspect of your career?

Whatever it is, commit today to raise the bar and hold yourself to a higher standard.

If you’re a high-performing manager who just needs some space to think, reflect, or refocus, book your session with Lynne for a 

25-Minute Leadership Consult.

For more information on CORE leadership skills, visit my website at www.lynnepeyton.com/core

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