It takes many a talented team member to keep the cogs turning at River Island, and we couldn’t be more proud of the big ol’ fashion family we’ve become. To give you a little insight into what it’s really like to work here (it’s great obvs, but we’re biased!) we paid a visit to our Tech Hub in the heart of East London to chat with User Experience Lead, Jamaal John…
Tell us about what you do…
In my role as User Experience Lead I’m responsible for delivering the most efficient, engaging and innovative experiences to users. In layman’s terms that basically means making sure that everything we do on site runs as smoothly and as seamlessly as possible for the customer.
What does a typical day at River Island Tech look like for you?
My day starts with the usual train commute, when I’ll settle down to read a bit of sci-fi or play Zelda on my Nintendo Switch. When I get in I’ll spend some time catching up on emails and researching, sharing interesting industry articles with the wider team. The rest of my day is usually spent in meetings and what we call ‘stand-ups’. As I’m involved with so many projects, of varying sizes and across the whole of the business, I’m a firm believer that face-to-face conversations are the best way to communicate most effectively! After a long day in the office I’ll wind down at the gym.
Tell us about the RI Tech Hub…
It's a great collaborative work space in the middle of Shoreditch, in East London. We host a ton of innovative events and meet-ups so it never gets boring. Oh, and we have a fully stocked bar which is definitely a plus.
How did you get into your career?
I actually studied Graphic Design at UAL, but my first job within digital was in the e-commerce team at high-end fashion boutique, Matches. I’d worked in-store there during my time at university and thought it would be worth trying to get my foot through the door by taking an entry-level position in their digital department.
What’s your favourite thing about your job?
I love the variety of challenges, problems and puzzles we solve on a day-to-day basis. The marketplace is so fast paced and changes so frequently which offers innovative new ways to engage, assist and understand our customers.
Which career path would you have chosen if you weren’t in your current career?
Being an avid gamer it would definitely have to be game design.
How would you describe your personal style?
Probably quite strait-laced; it's got to be fitted and box-fresh. I like to keep it quite simple and pared back, but with the occasional splash of colour.
What’s your autumn / winter wardrobe staple and why?
I don’t think I could choose just one. For me it’s an all-weather parka, beanie hat, leather gloves (tech friendly obviously) and black leather Vans.
What one piece of advice would you give someone trying to break into the industry?
Be tenacious. If you show enough enthusiasm and a real willingness to learn people will pick up on that and you’ll go far. The only one that can go out there and make it happen is you.
What do you love most about working at River Island?
100% the people!
Quick Fire: This or That?
